SB 397 Summary

• Creates a statewide fire sprinkler contractor registration and certification system administered by the state fire marshal, requiring contractors who install or service fire sprinkler systems to register and obtain a certificate of registration.

• Establishes a seven-member Fire Sprinkler Advisory Council to guide the program, consisting of four experienced contractors (nominated by the two largest fire sprinkler associations), one insurance claims adjuster, one licensed professional engineer, and one state fire marshal representative.

• Sets qualification requirements for certification including: minimum five years of fire sprinkler experience, employment of a fire protection engineer with a bachelor's degree, employment of a NICET Level IV-certified professional with three years supervisory experience, or employment of a NICET Level III-certified professional with five years supervisory experience.

• Requires certificates to be valid for two years, renewable biennially, and mandates contractors maintain at least $1 million in general liability insurance coverage with products and completed operations coverage.

• Allows the state fire marshal to refuse certification or pursue disciplinary action (suspension, probation, or revocation) for fraud, incompetence, criminal convictions, violations of the law, or operating without required insurance; provides for court injunctions against unlicensed contractors.