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Senate Co-Sponsorship Memoranda
Senate of Pennsylvania
Session of 2017 - 2018
Regular Session
MEMORANDUM
| Posted: | September 13, 2018 08:43 AM |
|---|---|
| From: | Senator Jay Costa |
| To: | All Senate members |
| Subject: | Law Enforcement Oversight Board |
| In the near future, I will be introducing legislation that will establish a professional oversight board for law enforcement officers, similar to other licensure and certification boards currently under the jurisdiction of the Department of State. The board will be responsible for providing certification to law enforcement officers, preparing and administering exams for certification, offering continuing education, and disciplining police officers if necessary. The board exams will be required to focus on knowledge of the law and criminal procedures, but also have a special emphasis on de-escalation techniques and community safety. Once a certificate is issued, the board will have the authority to investigate complaints, take disciplinary action, including suspending, revoking, and reinstating a certificate, and to design and provide for continuing education. In addition to creating a system of oversight, the legislation will provide professional protection from anyone acting as a law enforcement officer without credentials. The Board will consist of 14 members spanning the law enforcement profession including the Attorney General’s Office, the Chiefs of Police Association, the District Attorneys Association, and active police officers. Please join me in co-sponsoring this legislation. |