This bill amends various sections of Alaska law to establish accreditation standards for law enforcement agencies. It introduces new provisions that require law enforcement agencies, including municipal police departments and Alaska state trooper posts, to obtain and maintain accreditation based on minimum standards and practices set by the council. The bill outlines the creation of three accreditation tiers, with the first tier designed to protect agencies from liability and enhance public confidence in policing. Additionally, it specifies that the council will base these standards on guidelines from recognized organizations such as the International Association of Chiefs of Police.

The bill also includes specific legal language changes, such as the insertion of new clauses that define actionable claims against the state and municipalities, particularly concerning law enforcement agencies' adherence to accreditation standards. Notably, it establishes that claims for damages related to a law enforcement agency's failure to meet accreditation standards are actionable. Furthermore, the bill provides a transition period until January 1, 2027, for existing law enforcement agencies to achieve the first tier of accreditation, ensuring they have adequate time to comply with the new requirements.

Statutes affected:
SB0053A, AM SB 53, introduced 01/22/2025: 09.50.250, 44.77.040, 36.30.560, 36.30.695, 36.30.685, 18.15.355, 18.15.395, 18.15.385, 33.05.020, U.S.C, 44.41.020, 18.65.228, 09.65.070, 29.71.070, 18.65.220, 18.65.130, 18.65.290, 18.65.230, 18.65.240, 18.65.227