Florida legislature approves bill requiring sprinkler systems
The Florida Legislature last week approved a bill that requires all of the state's nursing homes to have automated fire sprinkler systems by Dec. 31, 2008.
A bill affects a total of 35 nursing homes, mostly older facilities. These include one in Pasco County, four in Pinellas County and one in Polk County. Nursing homes without fire sprinkler systems represent 4,200 beds, about 5% of Florida's nursing home stock.
The legislation – House Bill 1267 – now heads to Gov. Jeb Bush for his signature. If signed, a loan guarantee program would be available.
