Substitute House Bill No. 7119 seeks to amend various sections of the Connecticut General Statutes concerning fire safety, explosives regulation, and building codes. A significant change is the granting of exclusive jurisdiction over explosives, fireworks, pyrotechnics, and rockets to the Commissioner of Emergency Services and Public Protection, who will adopt regulations aligned with the State Fire Prevention Code. The bill also expands the advisory committee under section 29-291a from nine to eleven members, incorporating representatives from local fire marshals and fire inspectors. Additionally, it modifies definitions related to rental properties, requiring municipalities with populations over 25,000 to collect and maintain information on nonresident property owners, with penalties for noncompliance now classified as violations rather than infractions.

The bill further enhances safety standards by increasing penalties for violations of the State Building Code and Fire Safety Code, establishing a tiered fine structure for repeat offenders, and mandating annual inspections of elevators in multifamily housing projects. It also introduces provisions for energy efficiency, requiring the development of a model ordinance by July 1, 2026, that municipalities can adopt to exceed current energy standards. Other amendments include allowing the installation of small elevators in residential buildings and clarifying landlord responsibilities regarding health and safety codes. Overall, the bill aims to improve public safety and clarify responsibilities in fire safety and building management.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 29-291c, 29-253, 29-195
PS Joint Favorable Substitute: 29-254a, 29-394, 29-253, 29-195
File No. 410: 29-254a, 29-394, 29-253, 29-195