HB376 Summary

• Authorizes the State Fire Marshal to regulate and issue pyrotechnic display operator licenses and pyrotechnic special effects operator licenses to persons providing fireworks displays and related special effects.

• Establishes licensure requirements including minimum age of 21, completion of 8-hour training program (pyrotechnic display operators) or 16-hour training program (special effects operators) with 75% passing score, evidence of safe performances, and federal Employer Possessor Letter of Clearance.

• Requires applicants to pay a $120 application fee, with licenses valid for two years and renewable upon completion of continuing education and proof of at least two safe performances within the renewal period.

• Allows for reciprocal licensing from other states and provides expedited licensing for persons previously certified as lead technicians by the State Fire Marshal (applications must be submitted by December 31, 2019).

• Deposits all collected fees into the State Fire Marshal's Fund and establishes that violations constitute a Class A misdemeanor.