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. Specifically, it introduces a new paragraph to RSA 153:8-a, which mandates that the state fire marshal must hold a hearing within 40 days of receiving an appeal and issue a written decision within 30 days of the hearing's conclusion. The state fire marshal's review is not bound by formal rules of evidence, allowing for a broader consideration of relevant evidence. Additionally, any party dissatisfied with the state fire marshal's decision can appeal to the building code review board as per RSA 155-A:11.

Furthermore, the bill expands the state fire marshal's enforcement authority under the state building code by adding a new paragraph to RSA 155-A:7. This new provision empowers the state fire marshal to approve, disapprove, or permit alternative materials, designs, methods of construction, and code modifications for all municipalities. The bill 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
CHAPTERED FINAL VERSION: 153:8-a, 155-A:7
HB1555 text: 153:5, 153:8-a, 154:2, 155-A:7, 155-A:11