Senate expected to pass fire safety bill today
Topping Eyewitness News this morning, fire legislation aimed at making Rhode Island safer has passed the house and is on its way to the senate today.
Rhode Island is one step closer to change after the club fire tragedy. The bill passed with a unanimous vote in the house, and the senate is scheduled to vote on it today.
After the Station nightclub fire that killed 100 people and injured many others, the General Assembly created the special fire safety commission. And after nine weeks of study and testimony they issued their proposals last week. The 37-page comprehensive fire safety act of 2003 is a direct result of the commission's study and suggested changes.
The House of Representatives approved it with a 71-zero vote, and sources say that when the bill hits Governor Carcieri's desk later this month, he will sign it. This new legislation would end the "grandfather" clause exemption from modern fire codes, by completely eliminating it by the 1-year anniversary of the Station fire. The legislation would also require more mandatory sprinklers, ban pyrotechnics in most indoor venues, and give fire inspectors more power.
Fire officials have been behind the bill- urging it be passed without any hesitation. The bill has overwhelming support at the senate and is expected to pass later today.
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