Committee backs update to smoke‑detector standard for new Georgia homes

Mike Shores told the House Agriculture and Consumer Affairs Committee that House Bill 1201 updates Georgia’s smoke-detector requirement for new homes to require devices certified to the ninth edition of UL 217 (or later). "Early detection saves lives, and this bill helps that," Shores said, noting recent fire trends and arguing that modern synthetic materials lead fires to burn hotter and faster.

Shores cited casualty figures to underline the change: "For context, 2024, 83 Georgians lost their lives to a fire in a home," he said. He argued that escape time has shortened compared with decades past and that updated equipment standards are needed to preserve residents’ ability to evacuate.

On enforcement, Shores said local building inspectors and fire marshals would be responsible; the bill specifies a fine of $25, with the first violation receiving a warning. Committee members questioned whether consumer retailers sell non‑certified devices and how builders and the public will know the standard; Shores responded that builders would be expected to comply and that current retail offerings often meet the new standard.

Chairman Levitt moved the committee to 'do pass' on HB 1201; members approved by voice vote. The bill will go to the rules process for scheduling and further consideration.