This bill amends existing laws regarding the establishment and duties of municipal police and fire departments in Arkansas to create consistency across statutes. It grants the governing bodies of cities of the first class and second class, as well as incorporated towns, the authority to prescribe duties, define powers, and promulgate policies for their respective police departments. The term "governing body" is clarified to refer to the city council in a mayor-council government or the board of directors in a city manager or city administrator government.

Additionally, the bill modifies the language concerning fire department establishment, replacing "city council" with "governing body" to reflect the same governing structure as for police departments. It allows the governing body to establish fire departments, provide necessary equipment, and enter into contracts for fire protection services. The bill emphasizes the governing body's power to define the operational framework for both police and fire departments, ensuring a uniform approach to municipal governance in these areas.

Statutes affected:
HB 1175: 14-52-101, 14-52-102
Act 103: 14-52-101, 14-52-102