The bill, identified as Substitute Senate Bill No. 139 with File No. 13, proposes the establishment of a forensic science training laboratory and related training programs at Central Connecticut State University (CCSU). The bill requires the Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection and CCSU to create a memorandum of understanding by January 1, 2025, for the development of this laboratory and courses aimed at training police officers who aspire to become detectives. The memorandum may also include provisions for other training programs, such as investigative techniques, supervision, and executive leadership.
Financially, the bill appropriates $1,017,000 from the General Fund to CCSU for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025, to develop the forensic science training laboratory and associated courses as described in the memorandum of understanding. The fiscal impact statement indicates that the bill will result in a cost of approximately $1 million in FY 25, with ongoing annual costs of up to $200,000. The initial costs include lab renovations, equipment, supplies, and consultant fees for program development, while annual costs cover adjuncts, lab assistants, supplies, and potential scholarships for participating police officers. The bill has received a Joint Favorable Substitute recommendation from the Public Safety and Security Committee.