SB 454 - Arson Law Revisions Summary

• Repeals G.S. 14-60 and creates new offense of burning commercial structures: Class D felony if occupied, Class E felony if unoccupied.

• Increases penalties for arson or unlawful burning resulting in injury to firefighters, law enforcement officers, fire investigators, or emergency medical technicians: Class E felony for serious bodily injury, Class F felony for physical injury.

• Transfers fire investigation authority from Director of State Bureau of Investigation to Commissioner of Insurance through the Office of State Fire Marshal.

• Requires criminal history record checks for all fire department applicants (paid and volunteer) and prohibits applicants with prior arson or felony burning convictions from serving; applicants must disclose pending felony charges involving burning or arson.

• Becomes effective December 1, 2021, except fire department provisions effective upon enactment for applications submitted on or after that date.