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 tiers of accreditation, 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 modifies existing legal language regarding actionable claims against the state and municipalities, specifically addressing claims related to law enforcement agencies' adherence to accreditation standards. It includes provisions that prevent lawsuits against municipalities and state agencies for failures related to accreditation, thereby limiting liability in these contexts. Furthermore, the bill establishes a transition period until January 1, 2027, for law enforcement agencies to achieve the first tier of accreditation, ensuring that agencies 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