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Bill

HB 1415

TO REQUIRE LOCAL LAW ENFORCEMENT TO RESPOND TO A REQUEST FOR A FIRE INQUIRY.

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

HB 1415 aimed to require local law enforcement in Arkansas to respond to fire inquiries, enhancing collaboration for quicker investigations into fire-related crimes.

Died in House Committee at Sine Die adjournment.
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Bill Summary · HB 1415

Summary of House Bill 1415

Bill Information

  • Bill Number: HB 1415
  • Title: To Require Local Law Enforcement to Respond to a Request for a Fire Inquiry
  • Status: Died in House Committee at Sine Die adjournment
  • Introduced: February 5, 2025
  • Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 1415 aimed to enhance the collaboration between local law enforcement and fire officials in Arkansas by mandating that local law enforcement officers respond to requests for fire inquiries. The bill sought to ensure that investigations into potential crimes related to fires could be conducted promptly and effectively.

Key Provisions

The bill proposed amendments to Arkansas Code § 12-13-112(a), specifically:

  1. Inquiry Authority:

    • The Director of the Division of Arkansas State Police or designated officers would retain the authority to conduct inquiries when there is reason to believe that a crime has been committed in connection with a fire.

  2. Mandatory Response:

    • Municipal and county law enforcement officers would be required to respond to requests from fire officials to assess whether a fire investigation is warranted.

Impact

  • Affected Parties:

    • The bill would have impacted local law enforcement agencies and fire departments across Arkansas, facilitating better coordination during fire investigations.

  • Potential Benefits:

    • By requiring law enforcement to respond to fire inquiries, the bill aimed to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of fire investigations, potentially leading to quicker resolutions of cases involving arson or other fire-related crimes.

Legislative Actions

  • February 5, 2025: Bill filed and read for the first time.
  • March 31, 2025: The bill was placed on the second reading for the purpose of amendment, and Amendment No. 1 was adopted.
  • May 5, 2025: The bill died in the House Committee at Sine Die adjournment, meaning it did not progress to further consideration or a vote.

Conclusion

While HB 1415 was designed to strengthen the response of local law enforcement to fire inquiries, it ultimately did not advance through the legislative process. The proposed changes reflected an effort to enhance public safety and investigative collaboration in the context of fire-related incidents in Arkansas.

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

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