CHAPTER 42

S.P. 31 - L.D. 79

An Act Regarding the Enforcement Powers of the Office of

the State Fire Marshal

Emergency preamble. Whereas, Acts of the Legislature do not become effective until 90 days after adjournment unless enacted as emergencies; and

Whereas, the State Fire Marshal and the State Fire Marshal's deputy and investigators are sworn law enforcement officers with all the powers and duties granted to sheriffs under the law but are limited in the enforcement of such powers to issues regarding fire prevention and arson; and

Whereas, removing the enforcement limitation will allow the State Fire Marshal and the State Fire Marshal's deputy and investigators to respond to and investigate other crimes that pose a danger to public safety; and

Whereas, removing the enforcement limitation will also provide protection to the State Fire Marshal and the State Fire Marshal's deputy and investigators if they provide assistance to other law enforcement officers and will ensure additional protection to those law enforcement officers who need backup assistance; and

Whereas, in the judgment of the Legislature, these facts create an emergency within the meaning of the Constitution of Maine and require the following legislation as immediately necessary for the preservation of the public peace, health and safety; now, therefore,

Be it enacted by the People of the State of Maine as follows: