Senator Kenneth P. LaValle wants New York State residents to be aware that “Amanda’s Law” became effective February 22, 2010. The law requires all residences with appliances, devices, or systems that emit carbon monoxide to have a carbon monoxide detector installed. Carbon monoxide can be produced when burning any type of fuel, including wood, gas, oil, and coal.
The new law was named for Amanda Hansen, a 16-year-old from West Seneca, New York who died from carbon monoxide poisoning while at a sleepover at a friend’s house. The source of the carbon monoxide was a faulty boiler.
“Amanda’s Law” was established to ensure the purchase and installation of carbon monoxide detectors in all homes or apartments. Under the measure, homes built before January 1, 2008 may install battery operated detectors. Contractors or any other person replacing an appliance, device, or system that emits carbon monoxide must install a detector. Violators will be subject to a penalty of up to $100. The law also requires the posting of the new law on appliances, devices, or systems displayed for sale that emit carbon monoxide.
“This is a common sense law that will save lives,” said Senator LaValle. “Carbon monoxide is a deadly, odorless gas that can kill. The installation of a carbon monoxide detector in every home will hopefully prevent the sudden and tragic loss of life that the Hansen family experienced.”