This bill amends existing legislation to require that the deployment of career fire fighters in municipalities and fire districts aligns with the standards set forth in the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 1710 (2020 edition). Specifically, it mandates that the governing body of a municipality or the board of fire commissioners ensure that fire-fighting personnel are organized and deployed for rescue, fire suppression, and related activities in accordance with these national standards. This is intended to enhance the safety of fire-fighting personnel and prevent local authorities from compromising safety standards due to budgetary or political pressures.

Additionally, the bill introduces new definitions and clarifications regarding the roles and responsibilities within the fire service, including the establishment of a mandatory incident management system and a technical implementation guide for career fire departments. The Commissioner of Community Affairs is tasked with promulgating rules and regulations to support these requirements, ensuring that fire departments maintain a high standard of safety and operational effectiveness. The bill aims to reinforce the importance of adhering to established safety protocols in fire service operations.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 52:27D-25