Senate Bill No. 192, introduced by Senator Seabaugh, aims to enhance the role of tactical medical professionals within law enforcement agencies in Louisiana. The bill defines a "tactical medical professional" as a licensed paramedic or physician appointed to provide medical support during high-risk law enforcement operations. It allows these professionals to carry firearms under specific conditions, such as possessing a concealed weapons permit and being appointed by the law enforcement agency. Additionally, the bill grants tactical medical professionals the same legal immunities as law enforcement officers while they are actively engaged in tactical operations, although it prohibits them from carrying firearms on emergency vehicles.

The bill also revises training requirements for law enforcement officers, maintaining the existing standards for full-time and part-time officers while establishing new criteria for reserve and auxiliary officers. It mandates that reserve and auxiliary peace officers complete a minimum of 100 hours of core curriculum, with at least 75 hours available online, and 8 hours of annual in-service training. Furthermore, the Council on Peace Officer Standards and Training (P.O.S.T.) is tasked with developing an updated training program for these officers by January 1, 2026. The proposed changes are set to take effect on August 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
SB192 Original: 40:2(A), 40:2405(A)(2)