The proposed bill amends Arkansas law to establish new standards for psychological evaluations or assessments required for individuals seeking employment as law enforcement officers. It mandates that all prospective officers must undergo an evaluation by a licensed psychiatrist or psychologist prior to being hired by a law enforcement agency. Additionally, current officers, regardless of their employment status (full-time, part-time, or auxiliary), are required to undergo biennial psychological evaluations to maintain their certification.
The bill specifies that these evaluations can be conducted in-person or via telemedicine, with an in-person assessment required within the first month of employment. It also stipulates that any psychological evaluation submitted must not be older than two years and that a temporary questionnaire-based evaluation is only valid for thirty days before a full assessment must be completed. This legislation aims to enhance the mental health standards of law enforcement personnel in Arkansas.