ARTICLE
This Legislative Update provides NAFED members with information related to new and/or modified fire protection and fire safety regulations/requirements at the state level. The report is not all-encompassing but rather informational and directional in nature. Should you be interested in learning more about a specific initiative listed, please click on the applicable link. ALABAMA The Alabama Department of Insurance, Insurance Regulation has announced under 482-2-101-0.2 adoption of International Fire Code (2021 Ed.) including Exceptions. The Rule is not subject to the Alabama Administrative Procedure Act. A hearing was held on December 10, 2024; with the adoption of the IFC (2021 Ed.) becoming effective January 1, 2025. Learn More » DELAWARE In October the Delaware Board of Electrical Examiners ("Board") solicited comments on proposed amendments to the Board's rules and regulations. Amendments to Section 8.0 to clarify that journeyperson, residential, and apprentice electricians' continuing education must be related to the National Electric Code. The Board deliberated on the proposed revisions at its regularly scheduled meeting on November 6, 2024, and adopted the changes to the rules and regulations as proposed, to be effective 10 days following publication of the order in the state’s Register of Regulations. Noted below are two key excerpts. 10.1.6 A communication and low voltage contractor that installs, services, and maintains all types of communication and low voltage systems which are energy limited. These systems include telephone systems, sound systems, cable television systems, closed circuit video systems, satellite dish antennas, instrumentation and temperature controls, low voltage landscape lighting, directional boring, networking systems, communication systems, and security and burglar systems. Low voltage fire alarm systems are specifically not included in this section. 10.1.7 Fire Alarm Signaling Licensees issued by the Office of the State Fire Marshal. Learn More » IDAHO IDAPA 24–Division of Occupational and Professional Licenses 24.39.80 – Idaho Minimum Safety Standards and Practices for Logging has announced a Notice of Rulemaking (Proposed rule) Docket 24-3980-2401 (ZBR Chapter Rewrite). “Fire Prevention, Protection and Suppression” requirements can be found in Chapter/Section 53 of the proposed rule. Learn More » MAINE Office of State Fire Marshal, Technical Building Codes and Standards Board, has announced several changes to the Maine Uniform Building and Energy Code “MUBEC.” The changes affect the following Chapters: • Chapter 1, Maine Uniform Building and Energy Code – Administrative Procedures • Chapter 2, Maine Uniform Building and Energy Code – Third Party Inspectors (“TPI”) • Chapter 3: MAINE UNIFORM BUILDING AND ENERGY CODE - COMMERCIAL BUILDING CODE OF MAINE • Chapter 4, Maine Uniform Building and Energy Code– Existing Building Code • Chapter 5 MAINE UNIFORM BUILDING AND ENERGY CODE – RESIDENTIAL BUILDING CODE FOR ONE AND TWO-FAMILY DWELLINGS IN MAINE • Chapter 6, Maine Uniform Building and Energy Code • Chapter 7 MAINE UNIFORM BUILDING AND ENERGY CODE – MECHANICAL CODE Learn More » MICHIGAN The Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs - Cannabis Regulatory Agency rules with the state’s Secretary of State office. Except for R 420.218a, the rules become effective 180 days after filing with the secretary of state. R 420.218a takes effect immediately upon filing with the secretary of state. Building and Fire Safety provisions of the regulations can be found in Section R 420.210. Learn More » MISSOURI The State of Missouri has introduced MO SB31 that establishes the Missouri Statewide Mechanical Contractors Licensing Act, which creates a statewide licensing system for mechanical contractors, journeymen, and apprentices. The bill defines "mechanical work" and outlines the requirements for obtaining statewide licenses, including experience and training qualifications. It also establishes the Missouri Mechanical Contractor Licensing Fund to administer the licensing program and gives the Division of Professional Registration the authority to promulgate rules and enforce the licensing requirements. The bill exempts certain counties and political subdivisions from the statewide licensing requirements and allows them to maintain their own local licensing systems, while requiring those local jurisdictions to recognize the statewide licenses. The bill also outlines grounds for disciplinary action against licensees and penalties for violations of the licensing requirements. Learn More » NEBRASKA Pursuant to the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA or Act), the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is taking direct final action to approve revisions to the State of Nebraska's Underground Storage Tank (UST) program submitted by the Nebraska State Fire Marshal (NSFM). This action also codifies EPA's approval of Nebraska's State program and incorporates by reference those provisions of the State regulations that Nebraska has determined meet the requirements for approval. The provisions will be subject to EPA's inspection and enforcement authorities under the RCRA and other applicable statutory and regulatory provisions. This rule is effective February 7, 2025, unless EPA receives adverse comment by January 8, 2025. If EPA receives adverse comments, it will publish a timely withdrawal in the Federal Register informing the public that the rule will not take effect. The incorporation by reference of certain publications listed in the regulations is approved by the Director of the Federal Register, as of February 7, 2025. Learn More » NEW JERSEY Proposed bill NJ A3894 which went to committee on November 14, 2024, aims to amend certain fire safety statutes to update licensure and equipment requirements and liability, fee, and penalty provisions; and expands membership of Fire Protection Equipment Advisory Committee. This bill amends certain fire safety statutes to update licensure and equipment requirements, liability, fee, and penalty provisions, and expands the membership of the Fire Protection Equipment Advisory Committee. The key provisions include: - Updating the smoke alarm requirements to reference regulations established by the Commissioner of Community Affairs, rather than specific NFPA standards. - Removing the requirement for portable fire extinguishers in certain residential structures. - Adding a requirement for labels warning of the danger associated with secondary power sources in structures with such power sources. - Modifying the inspection and certification requirements for changes in occupancy of residential structures, including exemptions for properties requiring rehabilitation. - Increasing the maximum fine for non-compliance from $500 to a single $500 penalty. - Expanding the Fire Protection Equipment Advisory Committee from 11 to 12 members, adding a representative from a sheet metal workers union. Learn More » OHIO Cannabis Facility Inspections – regulations finalized. The Ohio division of cannabis control may, at any time, with or without notice, conduct an inspection to ensure compliance with all representations made to the division, state and local law, Chapters 3780 and 3796. of the Revised Code, and the rules promulgated in accordance with Chapters 3780 and 3796. of the Revised Code. The Ohio division of cannabis control may conduct the inspection independently, or may work with third parties, other divisions, state agencies, or local authorities, including the Ohio division of agriculture, the division of industrial compliance, and the division of state fire marshal, to ensure compliance with, state and local law, Chapters 3780 and 3796. of the Revised Code, and the rules promulgated in accordance with Chapters 3780 and 3796. of the Revised Code. Learn More » Rule - Final File - Department of Job and Family Services - Fire Safety. A residential facility shall secure a JFS 01200 "Fire Inspection Report Child Care Facilities Licensed/Certified by the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services" (rev. 02/2015) fire safety approval or other form used for a local or state fire inspection. Changes include requirements for smoke detectors and fire extinguishers. Learn More » OKLAHOMA Proposed - Chapter 25 Referenced State Codes and Standards: Permits - State Fire Marshal Commission - 2024-10-08. The OSFM has filed for public review a notice of proposed permanent rulemaking a change to Section 265:25-1-4 Building Permits. The change entails Item (C) After any change of ownership, change in occupancy use or classification, and/or the building has remained unoccupied or vacated for at least 90180 days involving any of the use and occupancy classifications identified in the International Building Code® and Specific Situations identified in the International Fire Code®, shallmust be brought up to current code requirements. Learn More » Proposed - Chapter 50 Fire Extinguisher Industry - State Fire Marshal Commission - 2024-02-05. The OSFM has filed for public review a notice of proposed permanent rulemaking a change to Section 50. Fire Extinguisher Industry, Subchapter 1. General Provisions. The change entails updating definitions associated with Engineered Fire Suppression Systems, Pre-Engineered Industrial Fire Suppression Systems and Pre-Engineered Kitchen/Restaurant Fire Suppression Systems. The OSFM has also clarified in Subchapter 3 License Requirements, the licensure requirements associated with each of the suppression system types. Learn More » Proposed - Chapter 60 Fee Schedule - State Fire Marshal Commission - 2024-10-08. The OSFM has filed for public review a notice of proposed permanent rulemaking a change to Title 265. State Fire Marshal Commission, Chapter 60. Fee Schedule. The change entails adding new Item #(10) Pursuant to the International Fire Code® Section 105.6.30, Mobile Food Preparation Vehicles: an Operational Permit is required: (A) Annual Operational Permit fee - $150.00. Learn More » OREGON Remove requirements for liquefied petroleum gas installations in RVs per SB 410, 2019. On order of the Oregon State Fire Marshal – effective November 15, 2024, the RV fitter license description and license requirement was deleted from definitions and OAR State Rules 837-030-0120, 837-030-0130, 837-030-0190, 837-030-0200. OSFM 4-2024, Chapter 837, Department of the State Fire Marshal. Learn More » TEXAS Title 28: Texas Department of Insurance, Chapter 34, State Fire Marshal Subchapter C. The Texas Department of Insurance (TDI) proposes to amend 28 TAC §34.340, concerning payment of inspection fees. The proposed amendment will enhance efficiency and remove a limitation requiring outdated payment methods. Learn More »
This Legislative Update provides NAFED members with information related to new and/or modified fire protection and fire safety regulations/requirements at the state level. The report is not all-encompassing but rather informational and directional in nature. Should you be interested in learning more about a specific initiative listed, please click on the applicable link.
ALABAMA
The Alabama Department of Insurance, Insurance Regulation has announced under 482-2-101-0.2 adoption of International Fire Code (2021 Ed.) including Exceptions. The Rule is not subject to the Alabama Administrative Procedure Act. A hearing was held on December 10, 2024; with the adoption of the IFC (2021 Ed.) becoming effective January 1, 2025.
Learn More »
DELAWARE
In October the Delaware Board of Electrical Examiners ("Board") solicited comments on proposed amendments to the Board's rules and regulations. Amendments to Section 8.0 to clarify that journeyperson, residential, and apprentice electricians' continuing education must be related to the National Electric Code. The Board deliberated on the proposed revisions at its regularly scheduled meeting on November 6, 2024, and adopted the changes to the rules and regulations as proposed, to be effective 10 days following publication of the order in the state’s Register of Regulations. Noted below are two key excerpts. 10.1.6 A communication and low voltage contractor that installs, services, and maintains all types of communication and low voltage systems which are energy limited. These systems include telephone systems, sound systems, cable television systems, closed circuit video systems, satellite dish antennas, instrumentation and temperature controls, low voltage landscape lighting, directional boring, networking systems, communication systems, and security and burglar systems. Low voltage fire alarm systems are specifically not included in this section. 10.1.7 Fire Alarm Signaling Licensees issued by the Office of the State Fire Marshal.
IDAHO
IDAPA 24–Division of Occupational and Professional Licenses 24.39.80 – Idaho Minimum Safety Standards and Practices for Logging has announced a Notice of Rulemaking (Proposed rule) Docket 24-3980-2401 (ZBR Chapter Rewrite). “Fire Prevention, Protection and Suppression” requirements can be found in Chapter/Section 53 of the proposed rule.
MAINE
Office of State Fire Marshal, Technical Building Codes and Standards Board, has announced several changes to the Maine Uniform Building and Energy Code “MUBEC.” The changes affect the following Chapters: • Chapter 1, Maine Uniform Building and Energy Code – Administrative Procedures • Chapter 2, Maine Uniform Building and Energy Code – Third Party Inspectors (“TPI”) • Chapter 3: MAINE UNIFORM BUILDING AND ENERGY CODE - COMMERCIAL BUILDING CODE OF MAINE • Chapter 4, Maine Uniform Building and Energy Code– Existing Building Code • Chapter 5 MAINE UNIFORM BUILDING AND ENERGY CODE – RESIDENTIAL BUILDING CODE FOR ONE AND TWO-FAMILY DWELLINGS IN MAINE • Chapter 6, Maine Uniform Building and Energy Code • Chapter 7 MAINE UNIFORM BUILDING AND ENERGY CODE – MECHANICAL CODE
MICHIGAN
The Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs - Cannabis Regulatory Agency rules with the state’s Secretary of State office. Except for R 420.218a, the rules become effective 180 days after filing with the secretary of state. R 420.218a takes effect immediately upon filing with the secretary of state. Building and Fire Safety provisions of the regulations can be found in Section R 420.210.
MISSOURI
The State of Missouri has introduced MO SB31 that establishes the Missouri Statewide Mechanical Contractors Licensing Act, which creates a statewide licensing system for mechanical contractors, journeymen, and apprentices. The bill defines "mechanical work" and outlines the requirements for obtaining statewide licenses, including experience and training qualifications. It also establishes the Missouri Mechanical Contractor Licensing Fund to administer the licensing program and gives the Division of Professional Registration the authority to promulgate rules and enforce the licensing requirements. The bill exempts certain counties and political subdivisions from the statewide licensing requirements and allows them to maintain their own local licensing systems, while requiring those local jurisdictions to recognize the statewide licenses. The bill also outlines grounds for disciplinary action against licensees and penalties for violations of the licensing requirements.
NEBRASKA
Pursuant to the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA or Act), the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is taking direct final action to approve revisions to the State of Nebraska's Underground Storage Tank (UST) program submitted by the Nebraska State Fire Marshal (NSFM). This action also codifies EPA's approval of Nebraska's State program and incorporates by reference those provisions of the State regulations that Nebraska has determined meet the requirements for approval. The provisions will be subject to EPA's inspection and enforcement authorities under the RCRA and other applicable statutory and regulatory provisions. This rule is effective February 7, 2025, unless EPA receives adverse comment by January 8, 2025. If EPA receives adverse comments, it will publish a timely withdrawal in the Federal Register informing the public that the rule will not take effect. The incorporation by reference of certain publications listed in the regulations is approved by the Director of the Federal Register, as of February 7, 2025.
NEW JERSEY
Proposed bill NJ A3894 which went to committee on November 14, 2024, aims to amend certain fire safety statutes to update licensure and equipment requirements and liability, fee, and penalty provisions; and expands membership of Fire Protection Equipment Advisory Committee. This bill amends certain fire safety statutes to update licensure and equipment requirements, liability, fee, and penalty provisions, and expands the membership of the Fire Protection Equipment Advisory Committee. The key provisions include: - Updating the smoke alarm requirements to reference regulations established by the Commissioner of Community Affairs, rather than specific NFPA standards. - Removing the requirement for portable fire extinguishers in certain residential structures. - Adding a requirement for labels warning of the danger associated with secondary power sources in structures with such power sources. - Modifying the inspection and certification requirements for changes in occupancy of residential structures, including exemptions for properties requiring rehabilitation. - Increasing the maximum fine for non-compliance from $500 to a single $500 penalty. - Expanding the Fire Protection Equipment Advisory Committee from 11 to 12 members, adding a representative from a sheet metal workers union.
OHIO
Cannabis Facility Inspections – regulations finalized. The Ohio division of cannabis control may, at any time, with or without notice, conduct an inspection to ensure compliance with all representations made to the division, state and local law, Chapters 3780 and 3796. of the Revised Code, and the rules promulgated in accordance with Chapters 3780 and 3796. of the Revised Code. The Ohio division of cannabis control may conduct the inspection independently, or may work with third parties, other divisions, state agencies, or local authorities, including the Ohio division of agriculture, the division of industrial compliance, and the division of state fire marshal, to ensure compliance with, state and local law, Chapters 3780 and 3796. of the Revised Code, and the rules promulgated in accordance with Chapters 3780 and 3796. of the Revised Code.
Rule - Final File - Department of Job and Family Services - Fire Safety. A residential facility shall secure a JFS 01200 "Fire Inspection Report Child Care Facilities Licensed/Certified by the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services" (rev. 02/2015) fire safety approval or other form used for a local or state fire inspection. Changes include requirements for smoke detectors and fire extinguishers.
OKLAHOMA
Proposed - Chapter 25 Referenced State Codes and Standards: Permits - State Fire Marshal Commission - 2024-10-08. The OSFM has filed for public review a notice of proposed permanent rulemaking a change to Section 265:25-1-4 Building Permits. The change entails Item (C) After any change of ownership, change in occupancy use or classification, and/or the building has remained unoccupied or vacated for at least 90180 days involving any of the use and occupancy classifications identified in the International Building Code® and Specific Situations identified in the International Fire Code®, shallmust be brought up to current code requirements.
Proposed - Chapter 50 Fire Extinguisher Industry - State Fire Marshal Commission - 2024-02-05. The OSFM has filed for public review a notice of proposed permanent rulemaking a change to Section 50. Fire Extinguisher Industry, Subchapter 1. General Provisions. The change entails updating definitions associated with Engineered Fire Suppression Systems, Pre-Engineered Industrial Fire Suppression Systems and Pre-Engineered Kitchen/Restaurant Fire Suppression Systems. The OSFM has also clarified in Subchapter 3 License Requirements, the licensure requirements associated with each of the suppression system types.
Proposed - Chapter 60 Fee Schedule - State Fire Marshal Commission - 2024-10-08. The OSFM has filed for public review a notice of proposed permanent rulemaking a change to Title 265. State Fire Marshal Commission, Chapter 60. Fee Schedule. The change entails adding new Item #(10) Pursuant to the International Fire Code® Section 105.6.30, Mobile Food Preparation Vehicles: an Operational Permit is required: (A) Annual Operational Permit fee - $150.00.
OREGON
Remove requirements for liquefied petroleum gas installations in RVs per SB 410, 2019. On order of the Oregon State Fire Marshal – effective November 15, 2024, the RV fitter license description and license requirement was deleted from definitions and OAR State Rules 837-030-0120, 837-030-0130, 837-030-0190, 837-030-0200. OSFM 4-2024, Chapter 837, Department of the State Fire Marshal.
TEXAS
Title 28: Texas Department of Insurance, Chapter 34, State Fire Marshal Subchapter C. The Texas Department of Insurance (TDI) proposes to amend 28 TAC §34.340, concerning payment of inspection fees. The proposed amendment will enhance efficiency and remove a limitation requiring outdated payment methods.