General Assembly Raised Bill No. 7119 seeks to enhance the regulatory framework surrounding explosives, fireworks, and pyrotechnics in Connecticut by granting exclusive jurisdiction to the Commissioner of Emergency Services and Public Protection over these materials. The bill mandates the adoption of regulations for their safe storage, transportation, and use, aligning with the State Fire Prevention Code. Additionally, it modifies the advisory committee on fire safety by increasing its membership from nine to eleven, while also changing the composition to include two members from the Fire and Explosion Investigation Unit of the Division of State Police, removing the previous requirement for seven local fire marshals. The bill also establishes new permit procedures for fireworks displays, emphasizing inspections and approvals from local authorities.

Moreover, the bill introduces significant changes to enforcement mechanisms for violations of fire safety codes, eliminating the daily fine for ongoing violations and allowing local fire marshals to seek injunctions against non-compliant property owners. It establishes a citation system for violations, with fines up to $250, and outlines the distribution of these fines between municipalities and the state. The legislation also imposes new requirements for residential buildings regarding elevator installations for individuals with disabilities and allows towns to adopt stricter energy-efficiency standards. Overall, Raised Bill No. 7119 aims to improve public safety and compliance with fire and building regulations in Connecticut.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 29-291c, 29-253, 29-195