The bill introduces a new section, Section 16-22-1.1, to the Code of Alabama 1975, which authorizes public institutions of higher education to employ reserve police officers in addition to their full-time or part-time campus police officers. The president or chief executive officer of these institutions can hire reserve officers, who may serve with or without compensation, to assist in various law enforcement duties. To qualify, applicants must be at least 19 years old, possess good moral character, and pass a fingerprint and criminal history background check. The bill outlines specific functions for reserve officers, including patrol operations, traffic control, and crowd management, all under the supervision of a full-time police officer.

Additionally, the bill specifies that reserve police officers cannot exercise arrest powers unless they have completed certification from the Alabama Peace Officers' Standards and Training Commission. It also modifies the existing law regarding the carrying of firearms by stating that reserve officers may only carry firearms if approved by the institution's president or chief executive officer, removing the previous requirement for a properly issued permit. This act will take effect on the first day of the third month following its passage and approval by the Governor.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 16-22-1
Enrolled: 16-22-1