This Fire Prevention Week, NEMA Member Johnson Controls reflects on the electroindustry’s efforts this year to engage federal and state policymakers about the benefits of modern safety standards, innovative technologies, and fire safety education.
By: Dr. Rodger Reiswig, Fellow & VP, Industry Relations, Global Fire Products, Johnson Controls
Fire and life safety technologies, including smoke detectors, fuel gas detectors, and carbon monoxide sensors, are essential tools for protecting people and places. These technologies save lives every day by preventing incidents before they occur. But their effectiveness depends on strong safety standards that guide how they’re designed, tested, and deployed. Those safety standards don’t just happen on their own; they require thoughtful advocacy and policy engagement at both the state and federal levels. That’s why NEMA’s Fire and Life Safety Section is working across the country to ensure proven safety solutions are embedded in building codes and legislation.
State-Level Engagement: Driving Safer Standards
Indiana: Oversight Under Review
NEMA is monitoring developments in Indiana, where homebuilders may push to move the Fire Prevention and Building Safety Commission from the Department of Homeland Security to the General Assembly. Such a shift could weaken oversight, so NEMA is preparing a response strategy to ensure safety standards remain robust and enforceable.
Connecticut: Exploring a Fuel Gas Alarm Bill
In July, NEMA met with the office of Senator Martha Marx to explore legislation requiring fuel gas alarms. A follow-up meeting is scheduled for October, signaling promising momentum toward enhanced protection for residents and businesses.
Massachusetts: Strong Support for Safety Bills
Massachusetts was a major focus this summer. NEMA has voiced support for:
- H 2689 – Mandating fuel gas alarms
- H 2568 – Requiring carbon monoxide detectors in government and commercial buildings
NEMA testified before the Joint Committee on Public Safety and Homeland Security in July and submitted letters of support to reinforce the importance of these proactive safety measures.
Pennsylvania & Illinois: Letters of Support in Motion
In Pennsylvania, NEMA sent a letter backing H.B. 1522, which would require fuel gas alarms (pending amendments). In Illinois, NEMA is drafting a letter and pursuing a meeting with Representative Camille Lily to advocate for H.B. 3562, which would strengthen alarm requirements if amended.
Smoke Alarm Progress Across States
Beyond fuel gas and CO detection, NEMA has updated its state tracker to reflect momentum on 10-year battery legislation for smoke alarms. Ensuring reliable alarms is a critical step in maintaining uninterrupted residential protection.
Federal Advocacy: Strengthening National Policy
At the federal level, NEMA continues to build momentum for the Firewall Act, legislation that promotes disaster resilience through a tax credit for the purchase of mitigation improvements. Over the summer, NEMA met with:
- The office of Senator Adam Schiff (D-MA), the bill’s Senate sponsor, to discuss cosponsor strategy.
- The office of Representative Kevin Mullin (D-CA), who is preparing to introduce a House companion bill, including key provisions covering NEMA fire and life safety products.
NEMA is now reaching out to potential bipartisan cosponsors, finalizing a one-pager to support advocacy, and preparing upcoming meetings and outreach with House Ways and Means and Senate Finance members to build awareness and support. The goal: ensure that fire and life safety technologies are prioritized in any future tax or infrastructure legislation.
Looking Ahead
From statehouses to Capitol Hill, NEMA’s Fire and Life Safety Section is committed to advancing policies that make critical technologies standard in every building. By engaging lawmakers, testifying on key bills, and shaping national legislation, NEMA is ensuring that fire and life safety remains a top priority in protecting people, homes, and workplaces across America.
Want to be part of this effort? Learn more about joining NEMA’s Fire and Life Safety Section and help us continue driving meaningful change.