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HB 6657

AN ACT ESTABLISHING A FIRE AND CATASTROPHIC RESTORATION BUSINESS LICENSE.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Dave Rutigliano

Creates a Fire and Catastrophic Restoration Business License to regulate restoration firms, boosting consumer protection and oversight under the State Fire Marshal.

REF. TO JOINT COMM. ON Public Safety and Security
#licenses #statefiremarshal
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Bill Summary · HB 6657

Summary of HB 6657: AN ACT ESTABLISHING A FIRE AND CATASTROPHIC RESTORATION BUSINESS LICENSE

Overview

HB 6657 proposes the creation of a new state licensure program for businesses that perform fire and catastrophic restoration services. The bill targets establishing standards, oversight, and accountability for entities involved in post-fire and catastrophic damage restoration, with administration and enforcement likely by the State Fire Marshal.

Purpose and Intent

  • To regulate and credential businesses that provide fire restoration and catastrophic restoration services.
  • To improve consumer protection, ensure baseline professional standards, and enhance oversight of restoration work after fires or other catastrophic events.
  • To centralize licensing and regulatory authority under the State Fire Marshal.

What the bill would establish

  • A new Fire and Catastrophic Restoration Business License.
  • A framework under which restoration firms would apply for, obtain, renew, and maintain licensure.
  • Regulatory authority for the issuing agency (likely the State Fire Marshal) to set qualifications, fees, terms, and disciplinary actions (the specific provisions would be defined in the bill’s text).
  • Potential rules governing conduct, scope of work, training or certifications, insurance or bonding requirements, and compliance standards.

Note: Specific requirements (eligibility criteria, license duration, renewal cadence, application fees, approved practices, and penalties) would be detailed in the enacted text of the bill.

Who would be affected

  • Businesses and contractors that perform fire restoration and catastrophic restoration services.
  • Subcontractors and professional teams affiliated with restoration projects.
  • Insurance carriers and adjusters coordinating post-loss remediation work.
  • Homeowners, property owners, and facilities managers seeking restoration services.
  • Industry associations and professionals involved in restoration standards and training.

Potential impacts

  • Regulatory burden: Firms would need to obtain and maintain a state license to operate, which could involve application processes, background checks, insurance/bonding, education, and renewals.
  • Consumer protection and quality control: A licensed sector may improve accountability, standardize practices, and facilitate enforcement for substandard work.
  • Market effects: Possible changes in pricing, project timelines, and supplier selection as firms adjust to licensure requirements.
  • Administrative considerations: The State Fire Marshal’s office would bear ongoing responsibilities for licensing, compliance monitoring, and enforcement.

Procedural status and timeline

  • Introduced: January 24, 2025.
  • Current status: Ref. to Joint Committee on Public Safety and Security.
  • Next steps: If advanced, the bill would typically proceed to committee hearings, potential amendments, and floor consideration. Timelines depend on the legislative calendar and committee actions.

Key questions to watch (pending text)

  • What are the exact eligibility criteria and qualifications for licensure?
  • What will be the license duration, renewal requirements, and renewal fees?
  • What activities are expressly required or prohibited for licensed entities?
  • What penalties apply for operating without a license or for violations of licensure conditions?
  • How will the license interface with existing licensing or permits under the State Fire Marshal or other agencies?

This summary reflects the information available: HB 6657 would establish a Fire and Catastrophic Restoration Business License, administered by the State Fire Marshal, with status currently in committee as of its January 24, 2025 introduction.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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