For Immediate Release: Feb. 23, 2023

Contact: Robert Arbuthnot, 573-751-4106 

Senator Brian Williams’ Legislation Strengthens Peace Officer Standards

JEFFERSON CITY – Public safety officers will receive more training and face strengthened penalties for inappropriate conduct under a proposal presented by State Sen. Brian Williams, D-University City, on Feb. 22 to the Senate Transportation, Infrastructure and Public Safety Committee.

Senate Bill 38 raises the training required by the Peace Officer Standards and Training Program Commission (POST) from 470 to 600 hours. The bill also bolsters the disciplinary process for officers who act egregiously or test positive for illegal substances.

“Our first responders must have the tools they need to respond quickly and appropriately to crises,” said Sen. Williams. “Increased training and enhanced accountability processes will help advance this noble profession and enable officers to do their job in a safe, professional manner.”

Members of the POST Commission, the Missouri Highway Patrol and various police advocacy groups testified in support of SB 38 and agreed that increased training will lead to better public safety outcomes.

For more information about Sen. Williams and his legislation, please visit his Senate website at senate.mo.gov/Williams.