HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

151st GENERAL ASSEMBLY

HOUSE AMENDMENT NO. 2

TO

HOUSE BILL NO. 193

AMEND House Bill No. 193 by deleting lines 10 through 17 in their entirety and substituting in lieu thereof the following:

“ (16) Hear and resolve complaints and grievances concerning issues between fire companies.

(17) Hear and resolve complaints and grievances concerning claims of official misconduct by fire fighters and fire companies.

(18) Investigate injuries to firefighters incurred in the line of duty, to issue subpoenas in furtherance of such investigations, and to issue reports of its findings and conclusions with respect to such investigations.

(19)   Perform all acts and do such things necessary or convenient to carry out the powers granted herein.   The Fire Prevention Commission and individuals acting on its behalf shall be absolutely immune from any claims asserted against them in performing any of the duties described in this section. ”.

SYNOPSIS

This bill seeks to provide the State Fire Prevention Commission with the authority to hear and resolve disputes filed by members of the public or fire companies with respect to firefighting activities by individual firefighters and fire companies. The bill also authorizes the Commission and its staff to investigate fires where firefighters are injured and to issue investigative reports detailing findings and conclusions. The Commission will work with a committee of the Delaware Volunteer Firefighters Association to amend Regulation 709 with respect to listed items in this legislation. Finally, the bill provides immunity to the Commission and its staff for activity authorized by this section.