In the wake of the update on the fatal LaPorte Avenue fire from earlier this year, a bill has been introduced to improve protections fir Hoosier renters.

Last week there was an update from Indiana State Fire Marshall Steve Jones and South Bend Fire Department Chief Carl Buchanon. The investigation uncovered serious safety concerns regarding the conditions in the home, including the failure of a federally mandated safety inspection and a history of electrical issues.

State Representative Maureen Bauer of South Bend says the focus now has to be on ensuring a similar tragedy never happens again. She and Senator Niezgodski will file legislation to establish new escrow accounts for Indiana renters.

The South Bend Fire Department provides free smoke detectors to local residents.