This bill amends the administration and enforcement of the state fire code by granting the state fire marshal the authority to hear de novo appeals of decisions made by local fire chiefs or their authorized subordinates. The state fire marshal is required to hold a hearing within 40 days of receiving an appeal and must issue a written decision within 30 days of the hearing's conclusion. The review process is not bound by formal rules of evidence, allowing the state fire marshal to consider relevant evidence beyond what was initially presented by the local fire chief. Additionally, any party dissatisfied with the state fire marshal's decision can appeal to the building code review board.

Furthermore, the bill empowers the state fire marshal to approve, disapprove, or permit alternative materials, designs, methods of construction, and code modifications for all municipalities under the state building code. The bill does not provide funding or authorize new positions, although it is expected to increase expenditures for the Division of Fire Safety due to the additional responsibilities. The act is set to take effect on July 2, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 153:5, 153:8-a, 154:2, 155-A:7, 155-A:11
As Amended by the House: 153:8-a, 155-A:7
HB1555 text: 153:5, 153:8-a, 154:2, 155-A:7, 155-A:11