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 bill also allows the state fire marshal to affirm, modify, or reverse local decisions and provides a pathway for aggrieved parties to appeal to the building code review board. Additionally, the bill empowers the state fire marshal to approve, disapprove, or permit alternative materials, designs, and methods of construction, as well as code modifications for all municipalities.

The bill introduces new legal language into RSA 153:8-a and RSA 155-A:7, specifically inserting provisions that outline the responsibilities and authority of the state fire marshal regarding appeals and building code modifications. Notably, it does not provide funding or authorize new positions, despite the anticipated need for additional personnel to manage the increased workload. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2027.

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
As Amended by the Senate: 153:8-a, 155-A:7
Version adopted by both bodies: 153:8-a, 155-A:7
HB1555 text: 153:5, 153:8-a, 154:2, 155-A:7, 155-A:11