House Bill 3056 seeks to amend and reenact various sections of the West Virginia Code concerning the qualifications and responsibilities of the State Fire Marshal. The bill transfers powers and duties from the State Fire Commission to the Department of Homeland Security, designates the State Fire Marshal as the Chief Executive of the Office of the State Fire Marshal, and allows for the appointment of an interim State Fire Marshal in the event of a vacancy. It establishes new qualifications for the State Fire Marshal, requiring a baccalaureate degree or equivalent experience, along with six years of relevant experience, including two years in a supervisory role. Additionally, the bill introduces structured salary provisions for deputy fire marshals and assistant state fire marshals based on rank and length of service.

The legislation also expands the law enforcement authority of the State Fire Marshal and deputy fire marshals, granting them statewide jurisdiction to enforce fire codes, conduct criminal investigations, and make arrests. It allows for the issuance of citations for fire and life safety violations and mandates that the Office of the State Fire Marshal be recognized as a law enforcement agency. Furthermore, the bill includes provisions for the retirement of fire marshals, enabling them to retain their service weapons and uniforms upon honorable retirement, and requires insurance companies to cooperate with the State Fire Marshal during fire loss investigations. Overall, the bill aims to enhance the operational effectiveness and authority of the State Fire Marshal's office while ensuring better safety and compliance with fire regulations in West Virginia.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 15A-10-1, 15A-10-3, 15A-10-6, 15A-10-25, 15A-10-1a, 15A-10-26