House reopens debate on special function officers after concerns about firearms and liability

Representative Vier moved to reconsider House Bill 309, which would authorize divisions of the Department of Occupational and Professional Licensing to designate certain employees as "special function officers." Opponents argued the change would create new state liability by enabling nontraditional investigators to carry firearms; Representative Vier said the bill grants expanded authority and liability to the state and urged the body to discuss it further.

Supporters responded that the special function officers would be post-certified and experienced law enforcement personnel, arguing the designation merely recognizes existing training and provides tools for investigators working alongside state and federal law enforcement. "These are post-certified law enforcement officers," a sponsor said, noting many have years of prior experience and that department heads must approve weapons carriage.

Debate focused on scope and oversight: opponents emphasized that officers should operate only within narrowly defined job functions and called for additional training and periodic firearms proficiency to reduce risk. Supporters said the designation would improve investigators' ability to shut down illegal operations and enforce statutes.

The House did not adopt final language on HB 309 during this session; members voted on motions to reconsider and discussed returning the bill for fuller floor consideration so policy, not process, governs the measure.