SB 443
Granting municipal fire marshals authority to assist in lawful execution of law-enforcement officer's official duties
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Sign in to take action- Introduced
- Passed Senate
- Passed House of Delegates
- To Governor
- Became Law
Bill overview
This bill expands the authority of municipal fire marshals in West Virginia. It allows them to assist law enforcement officers in carrying out their duties, including making arrests for certain offenses like disobeying orders or violating arson laws. The fire marshals can arrest individuals without a warrant if the unlawful conduct occurs in their presence, and they can file criminal complaints. The bill also requires fire marshals receiving this authority to undergo specific training.
Key provisions
- Municipal fire marshals can arrest individuals for disobeying orders at a fire scene.
- Fire marshals can arrest individuals violating arson and explosive offenses.
- Fire marshals can arrest without a warrant if the conduct occurs in their presence.
- Fire marshals can file criminal complaints.
- Fire marshals can assist law enforcement officers in executing official duties.
- Assistance to federal law enforcement is limited.
- Fire marshals must receive training aligned with Law-Enforcement Core Training Standards.
- The bill amends existing authority regarding fire prevention and extinguishment.
Who is affected
- Municipal fire marshals
- Law enforcement officers (state, county, and federal)
- Residents of West Virginia
- Municipalities
- Federal Law Enforcement
Notable changes
- Expands the role of municipal fire marshals beyond fire prevention.
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