RI H7857

Creates a mandatory licensing and certification program for commercial kitchen exhaust system inspectors and cleaners, administered by the Office of State Fire Marshal (OSFM), effective July 1, 2027

Requires technician certification applicants to complete 30 hours of hands-on experience, pass an approved examination (minimum 70% score), participate in approved training, and undergo a criminal background check

Sets initial fees at $200 for business licenses and $100 for individual technician certificates, with 3-year renewal cycles requiring 5 hours of continuing education and reduced renewal fees ($100 and $50 respectively)

Mandates that licensed businesses employ at least two certified technicians, maintain general liability and workers' compensation insurance, and use OSFM-issued decals to document completed inspections/cleanings

Authorizes OSFM to impose administrative penalties up to $1,000 per violation, issue cease and desist orders, and refer repeat offenders (after three violations) to the Attorney General for misdemeanor prosecution punishable by up to one year in prison and/or $1,000 fine