The Substitute House Bill No. 5460 aims to enhance fire protection services across Connecticut by requiring municipalities to develop and submit local fire protection plans by July 1, 2027. These plans must include details on fire protection services, responsible entities, performance standards, and mutual aid agreements, and will be reviewed and rated by the State Fire Administrator. The bill also introduces new standards for firefighter safety and emergency response protocols, while establishing the positions of State Fire Administrator and Deputy State Fire Administrator, both requiring at least five years of fire service experience. Additionally, the bill creates a "Connecticut Fire" program to provide operational assistance to municipalities, including a grant program to encourage regionalization of fire services.

Significant changes in the bill include the repeal of certain provisions related to the administration of the firefighters' cancer relief account, transferring responsibilities from the State Treasurer to the State Comptroller. The bill also establishes a registry for career and volunteer firefighters, mandates the collection of emergency service data, and creates regional fire coordinators to improve communication between local fire departments and the Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection. Furthermore, it expands the list of officials authorized to use emergency vehicle lights and requires municipalities to review their fire protection plans every five years. The effective date for most provisions is set for October 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 7-323o, 7-313k, 3-123, 14-96q
PS Joint Favorable: 7-323o, 7-313k, 3-123, 14-96q
File No. 331: 7-323o, 7-313k, 3-123, 14-96q