Per the Maryland State Fire Marshal, a recent expansion of the Flynn and Laird Act now bans the sale, distribution, transfer, or installation of non–arc–resistant yellow-jacketed Corrugated Stainless Steel Tubing (CSST) across the state. The measure, effective June 1, 2025, closes a loophole in the original 2022 law by prohibiting retailers from selling remaining non-compliant stock, with civil penalties of up to $1,000 for violations.
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CSST, used to transport natural gas and propane, is prone to igniting in concealed spaces during lightning strikes, creating hidden fire hazards for residents and serious risks to firefighters. The original law honored Battalion Chief Joshua Laird of Frederick County and Firefighter Nathan Flynn of Howard County, who lost their lives in CSST-related fires. This update ensures only arc-resistant versions are permitted in Maryland homes and businesses.
Under the expanded law, retailers must immediately remove non-compliant CSST from shelves, contractors must confirm installations meet the updated safety standard, and homeowners are urged to verify that any gas line work uses arc-resistant materials. The change is aimed at preventing structure fires and preserving building integrity during electrical incidents.
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State officials will distribute educational materials to retailers and contractors in the coming months. A statewide workgroup, led by the Office of the State Fire Marshal and the Department of Labor, is also researching additional ways to reduce fire risks in commonly used fuel gas piping systems.
Article by multiple contributors, based upon information from Maryland State Fire Marshal press release
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