Hi Sherry,  It is an excellent idea.  I hope they pass the same law here in Washington State.

Very good idea...whatever helps to save people's life...should be done. thx for sharing.

As an Illinois Licensed Home Inspector, I would like to add a couple of tips:

1) Remember, carbon monoxide and smoke detectors only have a life of about 5 years.  The detector itself, stops working properly.  When the "test" button is pushed, it only indicates the battery condition, not the detector condition.  Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors should be changed out every 5 years to ensure the proper protection.

2) Regular CO detectors are like "idiot lights" in your car.  When a certain level of CO is detected. the detector signals.  This level is, typically, between 25 to 30 ppm.  A good detector will have a digital read out, showing the actual level of CO.  Low levels of CO can be dangerous, especially to infants (who spend a lot of time in their rooms, taking naps, people who are home sick (like with the flu or a cold) and the elderly.  CO poisioning is cumulative.  Long term exposure to even low levels of CO can cause serious damage or death.  We recommend digital readout CO detectors that are plugged into electrical outlets in every bedroom.  If these detectors register consistent levels above 10 ppm, the heating system in the house should be checked immediately.

3) The most common source of CO in a home is from conventional draft hood water heaters or from ventless gas log fireplaces.  A home inspector will be happy to check these items for CO leakage.  In our area, I regularly do free testing and inspection of these items as a public service.  In 2006, I did over 200 such free safety inspections and found 78 houses with real and serious problems.  Home inspectors do more than check houses for real estate transactions.  Home inspectors also save lives.

Hope this helps; 

William - welcome to AR!  That information is very detailed and helpful.  Thanks so much for the added knowledge.  Sherry