HB1415
To Require Local Law Enforcement To Respond To A Request For A Fire Inquiry.
AI-Generated Summary
This bill, House Bill 1415, proposes an amendment to existing Arkansas law regarding fire investigations. Specifically, it would add a provision to Arkansas Code § 12-13-112(a). The current law allows the Director of the Division of Arkansas State Police or their deputies to conduct an inquiry if they believe a crime is connected to a fire. The proposed amendment would mandate that municipal and county law enforcement officers respond to requests from fire officials. This response is specifically for the purpose of determining if a fire investigation is necessary. The bill aims to clarify and expand the responsibilities of local law enforcement in initiating fire-related inquiries. The core action is to require a response to a fire official's request for an assessment of whether a fire investigation is warranted. This change could streamline the process of initiating fire investigations when suspected criminal activity is involved.
Potential Impact Analysis
Who Might Benefit?
If this bill becomes law, fire officials across Arkansas would be primary beneficiaries, as they would gain a mandated response from local law enforcement when requesting an assessment of whether a fire investigation is needed. This could lead to quicker initiation of investigations into fires where criminal activity is suspected, potentially benefiting victims of arson or other fire-related crimes by aiding in the resolution of such incidents. Local law enforcement agencies would also benefit by having a clear directive on their role in responding to these requests from fire departments.
Who Might Suffer?
While the bill is framed as a procedural change, local law enforcement agencies, particularly in smaller jurisdictions with limited resources, could potentially be negatively impacted. Mandating a response to every request from a fire official, regardless of the perceived severity or likelihood of a crime, could strain their already stretched personnel and resources. This could divert officers from other critical duties and potentially increase response times for other types of calls if a significant number of fire inquiry requests are made. The financial implications of any additional time or resources dedicated to these inquiries, if not adequately funded, could also be a concern for local law enforcement budgets.