House Bill No. by Representative Fontenot amends and reenacts R.S. 40:1563.1, enacts R.S. 40:1563.1.1, and repeals R.S. 40:1563.1, significantly redefining the authority of the state fire marshal and associated personnel. The bill empowers the state fire marshal, the first assistant fire marshal, and deputy fire marshals to investigate and arrest individuals suspected of various arson-related offenses, including aggravated arson, simple arson, and insurance fraud. It also grants these officials the authority to carry firearms while performing their duties and provides them with legal immunities and defenses in actions arising from their official conduct.

Additionally, the bill establishes a framework for local arson investigators, allowing political subdivisions to issue commissions that enable these investigators to carry firearms and make arrests, contingent upon obtaining Peace Officer Standards and Training (P.O.S.T.) firearm credentials. The costs of training for local arson investigators will be covered by their respective fire departments. The provisions related to local arson investigators will be temporary, set to expire on June 30, 2028. The bill also repeals existing provisions related to the multi-jurisdictional arson task force and outlines the conditions for the issuance of commissions, ensuring that the authority granted is limited to the scope of the investigators' official duties while providing immunity for actions taken during their employment.

Statutes affected:
HB522 Original: