The bill proposes the abolition of the Arkansas Fire Protection Licensing Board, transferring its responsibilities, including authority, duties, functions, records, contracts, personnel, and funds, to the Arkansas Fire Protection Services Board. This transition aims to streamline the regulatory framework for fire protection services in Arkansas. Existing orders, rules, or standards established by the abolished board will remain effective until amended or repealed by the new board. The bill also amends various sections of the Arkansas Code to replace references to the old board with the new one, updating definitions, duties, and powers related to fire protection services, and introducing provisions for the removal of board members who do not attend meetings regularly.

Additionally, the bill clarifies the authority of the Arkansas Fire Protection Services Board regarding firefighter certification, allowing for the revocation or suspension of a firefighter's certification if convicted of a felony, while ensuring the right to a hearing before such actions. If a firefighter does not request a hearing, the Board's decision will be final and not subject to appeal. The bill also designates the Arkansas Fire Training Academy as the custodian of records related to firefighter decertification. Furthermore, it repeals certain provisions related to the Arkansas Fire Protection Licensing Board, including its authorization for a spending stipend and its transfer to the Department of Labor and Licensing, thereby streamlining the regulatory processes surrounding firefighter certification.

Statutes affected:
HB 1425: 17-40-103(a), 19-5-1242(c), 20-22-602(1), 20-22-602(6), 20-22-603(5), 20-22-604(a), 20-22-605(a), 20-22-606, 25-16-901, 20-22-607, 20-22-608, 20-22-609(8), 20-22-610(a), 20-22-611(a), 20-22-612, 20-22-613(a), 20-22-803, 20-22-804(a), 20-22-804(c), 25-16-903(22), 25-43-1102(a)