The Carbon Monoxide Alarm Standards in Schools Act mandates that schools using fossil-fuel-burning heaters or appliances, or those with attached garages, must install operational and approved carbon monoxide alarms in proximity to every classroom on the same floor as these potential sources of carbon monoxide. Schools are given a period of 18 months from the effective date of the act to comply with this installation requirement. Additionally, the governing body of each school is responsible for the maintenance, repair, or replacement of these alarms, including battery care.

The act also establishes penalties for non-compliance, specifically a summary offense for willful failure to install or maintain the required alarms, which can result in a fine of up to $50. The legislation clarifies that it does not alter the authority of the Department of Labor and Industry under the Pennsylvania Construction Code Act. The act is set to take effect immediately upon passage.