This bill amends sections 12.1-21-01 and 12.1-21-02 of the North Dakota Century Code, which pertain to arson and endangering by fire or explosion. The amendments redefine the term "person" to "individual" and expand the definition of arson to include additional circumstances under which an individual can be found guilty. Specifically, it now includes provisions for damaging one's own property with the intent to collect insurance or to deprive another individual with a legal interest in that property. Furthermore, the bill clarifies what constitutes a "legal interest" in property and sets a threshold value of two thousand dollars for the personal property involved.

In the section regarding endangering by fire or explosion, the bill similarly replaces "person" with "individual" and specifies that the offense includes placing emergency personnel in danger while responding to a fire. It establishes that if an individual places another person in danger of death with extreme indifference to human life, the offense is classified as a class B felony; otherwise, it is a class C felony. These changes aim to enhance the legal framework surrounding arson and related offenses, ensuring clearer definitions and more comprehensive coverage of potential scenarios.

Statutes affected:
INTRODUCED: 12.1-21-01, 12.1-21-02
Adopted by the House Judiciary Committee: 12.1-21-01, 12.1-21-02
FIRST ENGROSSMENT: 12.1-21-01, 12.1-21-02