SCS/SB 860 - This act allows contractors who engage in the installation of fire sprinkler systems or service fire sprinkler systems to apply for a certificate of registration. The registration statutes and rules have uniform effect throughout the state. Municipalities, counties, and other local governmental bodies are authorized to enact or enforce their own registration or licensing requirements. The State Fire Marshal is given authority to promulgate rules. Such rules shall concern the procedure for filing an application, applicable fees, and procedures for reciprocity with other states.
A contractor that applies with the state fire marshal for a certificate of registration must pay an application fee. The fees will be deposited in the Fire Sprinkler Contractor Registration Fund. The act also sets out the requirements that a contractor must meet to obtain a certificate of registration.
Certificates of registration are valid for two years and are not transferable. A fee shall be charged for duplicate certificates or changes to a certificate. A contractor holding itself out as a certified fire sprinkler contractor must display its certificate in a conspicuous place in the contractor's business. The State Fire Marshal is obligated to send out written notice at least thirty days prior to a certificate expiring.
The State Fire Marshal shall not issue a certificate of registration unless the applicant files evidence of general liability insurance of not less than one million dollars per year for all occurrences.
The State Fire Marshal is authorized to file a disciplinary complaint against certified contractors for specific violations. After the Administrative Hearing Commission finds that grounds for discipline are met, the state fire marshal may place the contractor on probation, or suspend or revoke the contractor's certification.
The State Fire Marshal is authorized to seek an injunction against persons or organization holding themselves out as being certified when they do not hold a certificate of registration.
This act is similar to HB 1904 (2012), HCS/SS/SB 769 (2012), SB 397 (2011), SB 927 (2010) and HB 2132(2010).
MIKE HAMMANN