This bill amends Section 19-5109 of the Idaho Code, which governs the Peace Officer Standards and Training Council. The key change is the introduction of stricter criteria for the rejection of applicants seeking certification as peace officers. Specifically, the council is mandated to reject any applicant who has been convicted of any felony that could result in imprisonment, as well as those convicted of misdemeanors. The bill also clarifies that the council may reject applicants with felony convictions that have been set aside, expunged, or pardoned, or reduced to a misdemeanor, as well as those subject to withheld judgments.

Additionally, the bill defines "convicted" to encompass various legal outcomes, including pleas or findings of guilt, regardless of whether a sentence is imposed or if the conviction is later set aside or dismissed. This legislative change aims to enhance the standards for peace officer certification in Idaho, ensuring that individuals with certain criminal histories are not eligible for certification. The bill declares an emergency, making it effective from July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 19-5109