Relating to the jurisdiction of the State Fire Marshal

HB 5446 updates West Virginia law to allow municipalities with certified fire code officials, inspectors, and plans examiners to perform fire safety inspections in specific occupancies - including business, mercantile, and public assembly spaces - that were previously under the State Fire Marshal’s direct jurisdiction. It clarifies certification requirements for fire code professionals, requiring municipalities to ensure staff meet training and examination standards for designated fire code disciplines. Uncertified municipal fire staff may work under a probationary period (up to 2 years) while completing certification. The bill directly affects local fire departments and municipal governments by expanding their authority to enforce fire codes in certain commercial and public spaces, while maintaining the State Fire Marshal’s oversight.