Substitute Senate Bill No. 1489 aims to create a framework for the establishment of regional police forces in Connecticut, specifically for municipalities with populations of 50,000 or less, effective July 1, 2025. The bill defines a "member municipality" as a town, city, or borough that joins a regional police force formed by two or more municipalities entering into an agreement to combine their police departments. Interested municipalities must submit an application to the Commissioner of Emergency Services and Public Protection, outlining the proposed structure, financial plans, and public safety measures during the transition. The bill also mandates the creation of a regional police authority to oversee operations, which will include representatives from each member municipality and will hold annual public hearings to review the police force's performance.

Furthermore, the bill introduces a regional police force incentive grant program to provide financial assistance to member municipalities for costs associated with establishing and operating a regional police force, such as construction and law enforcement equipment. The Commissioner will develop guidelines and eligibility criteria for the grant program, with a focus on municipalities with populations under 30,000. The legislation anticipates additional costs to the Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection and the need for more personnel to manage the applications and grant program, ultimately aiming to enhance public safety through collaborative policing efforts while supporting smaller municipalities financially.