GA HB1385

Creates a new Deputy Commissioner of Safety Fire position to head the Safety Fire Division, with the state fire marshal now reporting to this deputy rather than directly leading the division

Establishes a 7-member appeals board (chaired by state fire marshal) to review local governing authority rulings on building permits involving state minimum fire safety standards, with hearings required within 5 business days of appeal submission

Authorizes the Commissioner or designee to issue immediate evacuation orders for any building presenting imminent life safety hazards, and grants state fire marshal personnel subpoena power for examinations and investigations

Increases the fine for failing to maintain a smoke detector from $25 to $100 per detector and raises manufactured home reinspection fees from $15 to $150

Requires immediate reporting of fire or smoke fatalities to the Safety Fire Division by coroners/medical examiners, prohibiting movement of decedent's body until authorized by state fire marshal personnel