HB-5320 Summary

• Establishes the "Automatic Fire Protection Regulatory Act" to regulate fire sprinkler system installation, servicing, and maintenance in Michigan through licensing and endorsements.

• Requires contractors and fire sprinkler fitters to obtain licenses and endorsements from the Department of Energy, Labor, and Economic Growth; licenses valid for 3 years with fees of $20 application, $150 for license, and $40 per endorsement.

• Creates the Michigan Fire Sprinkler Board (9 members, at least 5 licensed) to advise on qualifications, examinations, standards of practice, and disciplinary actions.

• Mandates completion of registered apprenticeship program (8,500 hours practical experience plus 850 hours classroom instruction) and passage of acceptable test for licensure; allows 12-month transition period for existing workers to obtain licenses without meeting full requirements.

• Requires minimum 24 hours of continuing education per 3-year license cycle and establishes a Fire Protection System Fund through collected fees to support bureau operations and enforcement; unlicensed practice is a misdemeanor.