This bill amends current law to allow county sheriffs to certify that law enforcement officers employed by their departments meet the necessary criteria for the renewal of their law enforcement licenses. Previously, the renewal process required law enforcement officers to submit applications through their employing law enforcement units to the Police Training Commission (PTC), which included certifications from both the officer and the chief law enforcement officer. The new provision explicitly states that every county sheriff is permitted to make this certification, streamlining the renewal process for officers within their jurisdiction.

The bill maintains the existing requirements for license renewal, which include certifications related to moral character, completion of training, and the absence of certain criminal convictions. By enabling county sheriffs to certify compliance with these criteria, the bill aims to enhance the efficiency of the renewal process while ensuring that law enforcement officers continue to meet the standards expected of them. The act is set to take effect immediately upon passage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 52:17B-71