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 include a new classification of "correctional canine classifications" as law enforcement officers of the state. The language changes also clarify that all employees of the Department of Corrections are required to report violations related to prisons and correctional facilities to this newly named division. Additionally, the bill updates the language to reflect current legal standards and practices.

Furthermore, the bill establishes 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 the Department of Corrections. The previous limitations on their powers have been removed, allowing them to act similarly to other state police officers. The act is set to take effect on June 1, 2024.

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