House Bill No. [insert bill number] mandates the installation of fuel gas alarms in residential dwellings that contain gas appliances or connections. The bill defines "covered residential dwelling" as any single-family or multi-family residence with gas-fueled appliances and an active natural gas or liquefied propane gas service connection. It also defines "fuel gas alarm" and outlines the requirements for these devices, including that they must be tested and listed by a recognized independent testing laboratory and conform to specific safety standards. The bill requires at least one fuel gas alarm to be installed in any room with a gas appliance and allows for battery-powered or plug-in alarms in existing homes unless otherwise specified by building codes.
The bill grants the state fire marshal the authority to create rules for implementation, focusing on public education and voluntary compliance. Enforcement of the new requirements will occur alongside existing building and fire safety inspections, with written warnings issued for violations and a reasonable opportunity to correct them. Additionally, the bill clarifies that it does not require interconnection or remote monitoring of alarms and does not impose liability on utility providers for conditions on private property. The provisions of this act will take effect on January 1, 2030.