HB 1771 -- Training for Law Enforcement Officers

Co-Sponsors:  Britt, Merideth

The bill requires that at the time a person takes office as
sheriff he or she have at least 120 hours of peace officer
training.  Failure to do so vacates the office.  This provision
is effective January 1, 2001.  Currently, elected sheriffs are
required to participate in a specially designed 120-hour
training program, which may be paid for by the state.  Whether
the training requirement is met before or after assuming office
is left to the discretion of the county, but must be completed
within 18 months of taking office.

The bill also requires certification of elected peace officers
and their deputies and assistants within one year of taking
office.  Previously, this requirement was only imposed on deputy
or assistant peace officers serving in counties with less than 5
or more full-time peace officers.  Elected peace officers who
are not certified, beginning January 1, 2001, may continue to
hold office but may not participate in primary enforcement
activities, which are defined as activities used to enforce the
police powers of the state.