House advances measure to add ‘valet trash’ to state fire‑safety code after floor debate

The Maryland House on Feb. 25 advanced a measure asking the State Fire Prevention Commission to incorporate standards for so‑called “valet trash” services — door‑to‑door apartment trash pickup — into its adopted life‑safety rules.

The floor leader told the chamber: “What this bill does is it requires the State Fire Prevention Commission to incorporate into their regulations … valet trash services,” describing the change as a targeted insertion to ensure containers and pickup procedures do not impair building egress. The sponsor said professional firefighters testified in favor of recognizing the service while noting the bill leaves technical details to the commission and the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) guidance.

During a short back‑and‑forth, a member identified as the minority whip expressed reservations about lawmakers directing engineering choices. “I’m opposed to legislators meddling in engineering affairs,” the minority whip said, citing concerns about whether the General Assembly should specify technical life‑safety code elements. Supporters countered that the bill simply asks the commission to adopt a National Fire Protection Association reference the commission previously adopted but had not explicitly extended to valet‑trash practice.

The House adopted the committee’s favorable report by voice vote and ordered the bill printed for third reading. The bill will next appear on the third‑reading calendar, where members may offer further amendments or debate.