HB 440 Hovis, Barry
HB 440 -- LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS
SPONSOR: Hovis
Currently, the minimum number of hours of basic training for licensure as a law enforcement officer is 470 and the maximum is 600. This bill removes the range and requires no fewer than 600 hours and provides no maximum.
Additionally, current law provides the Director of Public Safety cause to discipline a law enforcement officer who is unable to perform the functions of a law enforcement officer with reasonable competency or reasonable safety as a result of a mental condition, including alcohol or substance abuse. Current law also allows the Director to discipline an officer who has committed any criminal offense, regardless of whether a criminal charge has been filed, as well as provides cause to discipline an officer who has committed certain specified acts while on active duty or under color of law.
This bill repeals the requirement that an officer's inability to perform the functions of law enforcement officer be due to a mental condition, including alcohol or substance abuse. The bill adds cause to discipline an officer who has been convicted or has pled guilty or nolo contendere in a criminal prosecution under the laws of any state, or the United States, or of any country, regardless of whether a sentence is imposed. The bill removes the requirement that certain offenses be committed by an officer while on active duty or under color of law. The bill adds cause to discipline an officer who has tested positive for a controlled substance without a valid prescription for the substance, is subject to an order suspending or revoking the officer's peace officer license or certificate, or has committed any act of gross misconduct indicating inability to function as a law enforcement officer.
This bill is similar to HB 2439 (2022).