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HB 1425

TO ABOLISH THE ARKANSAS FIRE PROTECTION LICENSING BOARD; AND TO AMEND THE LAW CONCERNING THE DUTIES OF THE ARKANSAS FIRE PROTECTION SERVICES BOARD.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Kim Hammer and 1 co-sponsor

Consolidates Arkansas fire protection oversight by abolishing the Fire Protection Licensing Board and transferring duties to the Fire Protection Services Board.

WITHDRAWN BY AUTHOR
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Bill Summary · HB 1425

Legislative bill overview

HB 1425 proposes to eliminate the Arkansas Fire Protection Licensing Board and transfer its responsibilities to the Arkansas Fire Protection Services Board. The bill consolidates two separate regulatory bodies into one, potentially streamlining oversight of fire protection services and licensing in the state.

Why is this important

Fire protection licensing boards regulate who can legally provide fire protection services, affecting public safety standards, professional qualifications, and consumer protections. Consolidating regulatory authority can either improve efficiency or create gaps in oversight, depending on implementation and the receiving board's capacity.

Potential points of contention

  • Regulatory consolidation risks: Merging two boards may reduce specialized focus on licensing standards and professional qualifications, potentially weakening oversight if the receiving board becomes overburdened
  • Job losses and institutional knowledge: The abolition could eliminate board positions and staff, risking loss of expertise and institutional memory built within the licensing board
  • Unclear transition details: The bill's brief description doesn't specify how licensing functions, pending cases, or staff will transfer, raising concerns about administrative continuity and due process during the transition

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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