Senate Bill No. by Senator Edmonds aims to enhance the funding and distribution of bulletproof vests for peace officers in Louisiana. The bill amends R.S. 40:2405.1(A) and introduces new sections R.S. 40:2405.1(E) and (F). It establishes the Department of Public Safety and Corrections Special Protective Equipment Fund, which will be used exclusively for providing bulletproof vests to peace officers. The state treasurer is mandated to deposit $8.5 million annually from the state general fund into this new fund starting July 1, 2024, along with any donations or grants designated for it.

Additionally, the bill requires the Louisiana Commission on Law Enforcement and Administration of Criminal Justice to create rules and regulations regarding the standards for bulletproof vests, ensuring they meet the U.S. Department of Justice National Institute for Justice standards and are manufactured in countries that are part of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement. This legislative effort aims to ensure that peace officers in Louisiana are adequately equipped with protective gear while also establishing a sustainable funding mechanism for these essential resources.

Statutes affected:
SB216 Original: 40:1(A)