June 4, 2011

REP. BUTLER LAUDS HOUSE PASSAGE OF
BILL REQUIRING CO DETECTORS IN SCHOOLS

State Representative Larry B. Butler is pleased to announce a bill requiring carbon monoxide detectors in all public schools has passed the House of Representatives. The bill was drafted in response to an incident that occurred in a Waterbury public elementary school where a faulty heating flue caused a carbon monoxide leak that sickened at least 40 children and one teacher.

“I was surprised to find out carbon monoxide detectors were not required in all schools and therefore felt we had to take action to prevent further incidents,” said Rep. Butler. “This case in Waterbury may have turned out to be a major tragedy if not for the quick response of school officials and emergency response departments. I am pleased my colleagues and Waterbury delegation supported the bill and concurred with the importance of this legislation.”

The bill provides that all existing public school buildings in the state be equipped with carbon monoxide detectors and that such detectors be routinely tested and inspected to ensure that they are in proper working order. The legislation also withholds a certificate of occupancy for any public school building unless the local fire marshal or building official has certified that carbon monoxide detection equipment is installed in compliance with fire safety code.

The bill now goes to the Senate for consideration.

Rep. Butler serves the 72nd General Assembly District and is Chairman of the Housing Committee. He also serves on the Finance, Revenue & Bonding and the Human Services Committees.