SB 778 Summary

• Creates the "Fire Sprinkler Installation Act" requiring individuals performing automatic fire protection system installation to be licensed sprinkler fitter journeypersons or registered apprentice sprinkler fitters, with civil fines up to $1,000 for violations.

• Establishes licensure requirements for sprinkler fitter journeypersons including 4+ years of experience, completion of a registered fire sprinkler program, and (after 1 year) passing an approved exam; licenses valid for 3 years.

• Requires apprentice sprinkler fitters to be at least 17 years old, enrolled in a registered program, employed by a fire sprinkler contractor, and working under direct supervision of a journeyperson; registrations valid for 6 months.

• Creates the Community Risk Reduction Fund to support administration and enforcement of the act, with application fees ($100-$300) and continuing education registration fees ($30) deposited into the fund.

• Establishes the Sprinkler Fitter Exam Committee within the Bureau of Fire Services, composed of the state fire marshal and four appointed members (two contractors, two journeypersons), to approve and implement sprinkler fitter exams.