The Metropolitan Police Department Training Academy College Credit Opportunity Amendment Act of 2025 aims to enhance recruitment efforts for the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) by allowing recruits to earn college credit for training completed at the MPD Academy. Specifically, the bill proposes that if MPD enters into an agreement with an accredited college or university, recruits who successfully complete the initial training program may receive up to 15 college credit hours. This would enable applicants to satisfy the 60-hour post-secondary education requirement by completing only 45 hours of education prior to joining the training program.
The bill amends Section 202(e)(1) of the Omnibus Police Reform Amendment Act of 2000, which currently mandates that applicants complete 60 hours of post-secondary education. The proposed change is intended to make the MPD more competitive in attracting recruits, particularly in light of challenges posed by neighboring jurisdictions that have different qualification requirements and incentives. By recognizing the academic rigor of the MPD Academy's training, the bill seeks to maintain high standards for police officers while addressing the current staffing shortages within the department.