To Require Local Law Enforcement To Respond To A Request For A Fire Inquiry.
Summary
HB1415 amends Arkansas law governing fire investigations and the State Fire Marshal’s role. The bill keeps existing provisions that make the State Fire Marshal, mayors, fire department members, and peace officers ex officio deputies of the Director of the Division of Arkansas State Police, and it clarifies that these deputies remain subject to duties related to fire prevention and investigating the cause, origin, and circumstances of fires.
The bill also adds a new authority for the State Fire Marshal to request that the Division of Arkansas State Police conduct an inquiry when the marshal has reason to believe arson has been committed. In practical terms, the measure is intended to strengthen coordination between the Fire Marshal’s office and state police in suspected arson cases and to formalize the marshal’s ability to trigger a state police inquiry.
Impact
HB1415 would amend Arkansas Code §§ 12-13-108 and 12-13-112 to expand and clarify the State Fire Marshal’s investigative role in suspected arson cases. It does not create a new criminal offense or change penalties, but it does affect how fire-related investigations are initiated and coordinated by authorizing the Fire Marshal to request a Division of Arkansas State Police inquiry. The bill also reinforces the status of the Fire Marshal and other listed officials as ex officio deputies with fire-investigation duties.
Sentiment
The available context suggests the bill is generally procedural and law-enforcement oriented, with no recorded committee debate or votes indicating opposition. The caption provided in the bill context emphasizes a requirement for local law enforcement to respond to a request for a fire inquiry, which suggests the measure is aimed at improving responsiveness and investigative coordination. Because there are no transcripts or votes, there is no documented public controversy in the provided materials.
Contention
No specific points of contention are documented in the provided committee materials or voting history. Based on the text and caption, any potential concern would likely center on the scope of authority given to the State Fire Marshal and the extent to which local law enforcement or state police would be expected to respond to or participate in fire inquiries. However, the record provided does not show any stated opposition, amendments, or disputed provisions.