The bill amends Section 14-3-9 of the Code of Alabama 1975, primarily to rename the "Investigation and Intelligence Division" to the "Law Enforcement Services Division" and to establish a new classification for correctional canines as law enforcement officers of the state. The language changes include replacing "It shall be the duty of all" with "All employees of the Department of Corrections shall" and updating the terminology to reflect current standards. Additionally, the bill clarifies that correctional investigative services officers and correctional canine classifications, along with their supervisors, are considered law enforcement officers with full police powers to investigate and enforce laws related to prisons and correctional facilities.

Furthermore, the bill removes limitations on the powers of correctional investigative services officers, allowing them to have full jurisdiction similar to other state police officers. It mandates that these officers display a badge when making arrests and requires compliance with existing minimum standards for state law enforcement officers. The act is set to take effect on June 1, 2024.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 14-3-9
Enrolled: 14-3-9