02/13/2024

House Bill 313

Lead Sponsors: Representative Jamie Callender and Representative Adam Mathews

Status: Favorably reported by the House Government Oversight Committee 12-0 (February 7, 2024)

Description: The bill authorizes fire investigators to attend approved peace officer training schools to receive firearms training to qualify to carry firearms while on duty and extends the same protections from potential civil or criminal liability for any conduct that occurs while carrying the firearm to the same extent as law enforcement.

The bill defines "fire investigator" as an employee of a fire department charged with investigating the origin and cause of fires and explosions. It does not include such investigators who act on behalf of an insurance company or other privately owned enterprise.

CCAO Position: No position (as of July 2024)