Changes to Safety Laws Since R.I. Fire

At least nine states and Boston approved new fire safety measures after a fire at The Station nightclub killed 100 people last February. Some of the changes are listed below:

• Alabama: State fire marshal now regulates indoor pyrotechnics.

• Connecticut: Local fire marshals have more power to evacuate buildings, and main exits must be able to handle the exodus of two-thirds of the building's capacity.

• Georgia: Operating a pyrotechnic display without a license is now a felony. Pyrotechnic companies must notify local fire officials in writing when they will have a show using fireworks.

• Illinois: New restrictions imposed on indoor pyrotechnic devices.

• Massachusetts: The city of Boston banned indoor pyrotechnics. Gov. Mitt Romney mobilized a task force to review state fire codes. Romney has also filed a sweeping fire safety bill that endorsed many of his panels' recommendations, which include banning indoor pyrotechnics and requiring sprinklers in bars and clubs with a capacity of as few as 50 people. That legislation is pending.

• Maine: The Legislature approved a bill requiring a person to apply for a fireworks permit 20 days before a display. The measure also doubles to $1 million the required amount of liability insurance for a fireworks display. Gov. John Baldacci is expected to sign it into law.

• Minnesota: Clubs must obtain a $150 permit from the state fire marshal before a performance involving pyrotechnics. Previously, local authorities could issue permits.

• New York: Club owners must get a local permit and file plans for indoor pyrotechnics.

• North Carolina: Local fire marshals must approve indoor pyrotechnics.

• Rhode Island: Pyrotechnics are banned in all but the largest public venues. Most nightclubs must have sprinklers by July 2005, and local fire marshals can order immediate repairs and write tickets for violations. Fire alarms must be municipally connected in all nightclubs with occupancies of at least 150 people.