WV HB3056

Establishes the Office of the State Fire Marshal as a law enforcement agency with statewide jurisdiction, authorizing deputy fire marshals to make arrests, execute warrants, and enforce state laws during fire-related investigations

Creates a formal rank structure for deputy fire marshals (from Deputy Fire Marshal in Training through Chief Deputy and State Fire Marshal) with a detailed salary schedule ranging from $42,536 for trainees to $90,000 for the State Fire Marshal, effective July 1, 2026

Requires the State Fire Marshal to employ a Chief Deputy who must have six years of experience in law enforcement, fire prevention, or fire safety, with at least two years in a supervisory capacity

Provides a certification pathway for current assistant or deputy fire marshals with five or more years of service to become certified law enforcement officers without attending a police training academy, subject to completing in-service training requirements

Authorizes retiring deputy fire marshals with 10 or more years of honorable service to receive their service weapon at no charge, keep a uniform, and obtain a retirement badge and identification card