We are thrilled to announce the return of a seasoned leader to the LLSSA Board – Kristin Hebert with Alarm.com. With years of dedicated service and a wealth of experience, our new Chairperson for the Bylaws Committee will guide us through a pivotal time. This is a fantastic opportunity for members to step forward and explore various roles within our board and committees. Your expertise is invaluable to our mission, and we encourage you to reach out to express your interest in contributing to our community. Together, we can drive meaningful change!

Fire detectors are vital components of any building’s safety infrastructure, providing crucial early warnings in the event of a fire. By quickly alerting occupants, these devices facilitate timely evacuations, significantly reducing the risk of injury and loss of life. To ensure optimal performance, regular testing and maintenance are essential for building owners and facility managers. This commitment to reliability is supported by codes such as NFPA 72, which mandates routine inspections of fire alarm systems, and NFPA 25, which governs the inspection and maintenance of water-based fire protection systems. Investing in these measures not only protects lives but also safeguards property and enhances overall safety.

TESTING REQUIREMENTS
In the U.S., various legal requirements dictate the maintenance and testing of fire detectors, with noncompliance potentially resulting in fines or penalties. NFPA 72 specifies that fire alarm systems should be inspected by a qualified professional at least every six months. Additionally, many insurance policies require regular testing and maintenance as a condition of coverage. Failure to meet these obligations could jeopardize claims in the event of a fire and have serious repercussions for responsible parties. By prioritizing regular testing, you gain peace of mind and ensure compliance.

“A functional test of smoke detectors shall be performed at intervals not exceeding six months, or more frequently as required by the manufacturer’s instructions.”
-NFPA 72, 2019, Section 14.4.3.3

PREVENTING FALSE ALARMS
Fire detectors can malfunction over time due to dust, debris, or electrical issues, compromising reliability. Regular testing identifies problems early, ensuring malfunctions are detected during routine checks, not emergencies. Timely maintenance allows for the replacement of faulty detectors, ensuring continuous protection. False alarms can be disruptive and costly. Regular testing verifies detectors are working properly, minimizing false alerts from factors like dust, debris, or insects, especially with improper installation. Disruptions can lead to unnecessary emergency visits and reduce occupants’ responsiveness to genuine alarms. Codes like NFPA 101 emphasize proper installation and maintenance to prevent these issues.

COMPLIANCE WITH MANUFACTURERS
Manufacturers provide specific guidelines for testing and maintaining fire detectors, which are crucial for warranty coverage and performance. Products from reputable
manufacturers, are UL listed and comply with standards like UL 268 for smoke detectors and UL 521 for heat
detectors.

“Functional testing of smoke detectors shall ensure that the detectors properly detect smoke and activate the alarm system. This can be achieved by using an appropriate test device or method as recommended by the manufacturer.” -NFPA 72, 2019, Section 14.4.3.4

PEACE OF MIND
Fire detectors are essential for protecting lives and property, enabling rapid detection, timely evacuations, and effective emergency response. While serious fires are rare, the risk
remains, making regular testing of fire detection systems crucial. Regular testing ensures the system is ready to respond, safeguarding both occupants and assets. Functional tests, as required by industry codes like NFPA 72 and NFPA 25, verify that detectors are functioning properly, preventing false alarms and ensuring the system operates effectively for optimal safety. 

Louisiana House Bill 145 (HB 145), introduced in the 2025 Regular Session, proposes to enhance the state’s construction code retrofitting income tax deduction. This bill is particularly relevant for professionals in the life safety and property protection industry, as it could influence homeowner demand for safety upgrades and retrofitting services.

Under current law, homeowners can claim a tax deduction for voluntarily retrofitting their residences to comply with the State Uniform Construction Code, with the deduction limited to 50% of the incurred costs or $5,000, whichever is less. HB 145 seeks to expand this deduction by including costs associated with bringing homes into compliance with the “fortified home” standards established by the Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety. Additionally, the bill proposes to increase the maximum deduction amount from $5,000 to $10,000 per retrofitted residential structure, while maintaining the 50% cost limitation.

For life safety and property protection professionals, the passage of HB 145 could lead to increased homeowner interest in retrofitting projects aimed at enhancing structural resilience against natural disasters. This heightened demand may result in more opportunities for businesses specializing in safety assessments, code compliance upgrades, and installation of protective systems. Professionals should prepare to address inquiries related to the “fortified home” standards and consider offering services that align with these guidelines.

The proposed changes would apply to taxable periods beginning on or after January 1, 2026. Staying informed about the progress of HB 145 and understanding its implications will be crucial for professionals aiming to capitalize on the potential increase in retrofitting activities prompted by the enhanced tax incentives.

Louisiana House Bill 85 (HB 85), introduced by Representative Foy Gadberry during the 2025 Regular Session, proposes significant changes to the state’s construction permitting process, particularly concerning roofing projects. This legislation is poised to impact professionals in the life safety and property protection industries by altering inspection protocols and compliance requirements.

Under HB 85, municipalities and parishes issuing construction permits would be mandated to enforce specific inspection standards for roofing and reroofing activities. For buildings other than one- and two-family dwellings, inspections must adhere to Chapter 15 of the International Building Code, as adopted by the Louisiana State Uniform Construction Code. For one- and two-family dwellings, inspections would follow Chapters 8 and 9 of the International Residential Code. 

Additionally, the bill requires local authorities to provide individual permit data upon request, enhancing transparency and accountability in the permitting process.

For life safety and property protection professionals, these proposed changes underscore the importance of staying informed about evolving building codes and inspection requirements. Companies should review their current practices to ensure alignment with the proposed standards and prepare for potential adjustments in inspection procedures.

Engaging with industry associations and monitoring the progress of HB 85 will be crucial for professionals aiming to maintain compliance and uphold safety standards in their operations.

LOUISIANA DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY & CORRECTIONS
PUBLIC SAFETY SERVICES
OFFICE OF STATE FIRE MARSHAL

The Office of State Fire Marshal is pleased to announce that, effective July 1, 2025, we will transition to a fully paperless IMS system. All communications, submissions, and transactions will be conducted electronically through email and our Information Management System (IMS).

Paper applications, supporting documentation, correspondence and paper checks will no longer be accepted. Any items received will be returned and delay processing. We are excited about this positive change, which will allow us to serve you more efficiently and ensure timely delivery of important information.

If you have any questions or need assistance preparing for this transition, please contact the Licensing department at (225)927-4911.
Thank you for your cooperation.

David McClintock, Director of Licensing
Louisiana State Fire Marshal’s Office
8181 Independence Blvd., Baton Rouge, La 70806
david.mcclintock@la.gov

It is with deep sadness that we share the passing of LLSSA member, our colleague and friend, Yvette Bernard on May 10, 2025

CARENCRO ~ Funeral services will be held Saturday, May 17, 2025 at an 11:00 a.m. Liturgy of the Word in Evangeline Memorial Gardens Chapel in Carencro for Yvette Marie Bernard, age 57, who passed away Saturday, May 10, 2025 at Ochsner Lafayette General Medical Center.

The Rev. Msgr. Ronald Broussard, pastor of Our Lady of the Assumption Catholic Church, will officiate at the services.

A native and lifelong resident of Carencro, Yvette, was employed with Cadence Bank, where her exceptional work ethic and generous spirit touched the lives of her coworkers and customers alike. She was the kind of person who could never leave anyone in a bind—always willing to go the extra mile and do so with a smile. Her commitment to her work and her team was just one example of the selfless way she lived her life.

A devoted parishioner of Our Lady of the Assumption Catholic Church, Yvette lived her faith daily, not only through worship but through the love she showed to everyone she encountered. She had a rare ability to connect with people—she couldn’t go anywhere without being stopped for a conversation, always greeted with warmth and joy.

Yvette had a gift for doing many things well. She found joy in the simple, fulfilling pleasures of life: working outside, cutting grass, even operating heavy equipment—tasks she embraced with enthusiasm. She was also a talented baker, cook, and hair stylist, pouring creativity and care into everything she did. Her talents were many, and her passion for life shone through them all.

Survivors include her husband, Jason Bernard; two sons, Fabian Andre Bernard of Lafayette, and Jacolby Sailele of California; one daughter, Javon Sailele of California; three grandchildren, Zeus Sailele, Zara Sailele, Ryze Sailele; her mother, Evadell George; three brothers, Paul George and his wife, Norma, of Katy, TX, Vincent George of Montana, and Shane George of Carencro; and numerous beloved nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

She was preceded in death by her father, Paul George.

The family requests that visiting hours be observed from 8:30 a.m. Saturday until service time on Saturday.

Melancon Funeral Home, Evangeline Memorial Gardens Chapel, 4117 N. University Ave., Carencro, (337) 896-3232, is in charge of arrangements.

Our thoughts and prayers are with the Bernard family during this time. Joe will be deeply missed by all who had the honor of knowing her.

Louisiana Senate Bill 122 (SB 122), introduced during the 2025 Regular Session, proposes significant updates to the state’s contractor licensing laws, particularly affecting professionals in the life safety and property protection industries. These changes aim to enhance regulatory oversight and ensure that contractors meet specific standards related to financial stability, professional conduct, and compliance with licensing requirements.

One of the key provisions of SB 122 is the introduction of new classifications for licensure, including “mold remediation” and “home improvement.” This expansion recognizes the specialized nature of these services and ensures that contractors in these areas are subject to appropriate licensing standards.

The bill also mandates that license holders must conduct all business transactions under the name as it appears on their current license or registration. This requirement aims to prevent deceptive practices and ensure transparency in contractor operations.

Financial requirements are also addressed in SB 122. Contractors seeking residential and commercial licenses, as well as their subclassifications and specialty classifications (excluding labor-only specialties), must demonstrate a net worth of at least $50,000. For home improvement, mold remediation, and labor-only specialties, the required net worth is $25,000. Contractors who do not meet these net worth requirements may satisfy them by submitting an irrevocable letter of credit in the amount of the required net worth.

Additionally, the bill extends the ineligibility period for individuals engaged in deceptive practices during board examinations. Under the proposed law, such individuals would be ineligible to serve as a qualifying person for licensure for a period of three years, up from the current one-year period.

For professionals in the life safety and property protection sectors, these proposed changes underscore the importance of maintaining compliance with evolving licensing standards. Contractors should review their current licensing status, ensure that their business practices align with the proposed requirements, and prepare for potential adjustments to financial documentation and operational procedures.

Staying informed about the progress of SB 122 and engaging with industry associations can provide valuable insights and support in navigating these regulatory changes. Proactive adaptation to the proposed law will be essential in maintaining effective operations and ensuring the continued protection of life and property in Louisiana.

Louisiana House Bill 618 (HB 618), introduced in the 2025 Regular Session, proposes significant updates to the state’s regulations concerning the inspection of conveyance devices, such as elevators and escalators. These changes are particularly relevant for professionals in the life safety and property protection industry, as they may influence inspection protocols, compliance requirements, and operational procedures.

Under current law, building owners are required to conduct annual inspections and certifications of life safety systems and equipment to ensure compliance with safety standards. HB 618 retains this requirement but specifies that inspections of conveyance devices must be physically witnessed by an inspector appointed by the state fire marshal. This measure aims to enhance the reliability and accountability of safety inspections.

The bill also clarifies exemptions to these requirements. Specifically, it states that the inspection mandates do not apply to registered recreational camps or to buildings with two stories occupied by a single tenant where employees are regularly present. For such buildings, a safety test of the conveyance device is required at five-year intervals instead of annual inspections.

Additionally, HB 618 introduces a standardized inspection fee of $150 for both initial and renewal inspections of conveyance devices. This fee structure is intended to streamline the administrative process and ensure consistency across inspections.

For professionals in the life safety and property protection industry, these proposed changes underscore the importance of maintaining compliance with evolving safety standards. Companies should review their current inspection procedures, ensure that their practices align with the proposed requirements, and prepare for potential adjustments to scheduling and budgeting for inspections.

Staying informed about the progress of HB 618 and engaging with industry associations can provide valuable insights and support in navigating these regulatory changes. Proactive adaptation to the proposed law will be essential in maintaining effective operations and ensuring the continued protection of life and property in Louisiana.

Louisiana House Bill 152, introduced during the 2025 Regular Session, proposes changes that could directly impact licensing procedures for businesses and individuals working in life safety and property protection. This bill revises and clarifies several definitions, including “applicant,” “qualifying agent,” and adds a new definition for “licensure.” These adjustments are aimed at refining the roles and responsibilities of those seeking or holding licenses in the private security industry.

The bill also updates how criminal history background checks are handled. It removes older language about fingerprint cards and replaces it with the more current reference to digital fingerprints. Additionally, it eliminates specific provisions regarding how criminal history information can be used or disclosed, which could affect how licensing boards assess applicants and share information. These changes suggest a shift toward modernizing background check procedures and possibly tightening or streamlining how information is evaluated during the licensing process.

For life safety and property protection professionals, this means the licensing process may become more standardized, with clearer expectations and revised compliance requirements. Companies may need to review and adjust their internal procedures to reflect the updated definitions and criminal background check protocols. It’s important to stay informed about this bill’s progress and consult with legal or industry advisors to ensure ongoing compliance and proper documentation for license applications or renewals.