The bill amends the Regional Transit District Act to clarify the responsibilities and authority of law enforcement officers employed by transit districts. It replaces references to "commuter rail service" with "district law enforcement officers," thereby broadening the scope of law enforcement within the district. The amended language specifies that these officers are authorized to carry commissions of office issued by the district and possess the powers of peace officers on all properties and facilities associated with the district, including vehicles and rights of way.

Additionally, the bill outlines the conditions under which a district law enforcement officer may make arrests, requiring them to wear either a distinctive badge or uniform issued by the district at the time of the arrest. It also mandates that newly employed district law enforcement officers must meet certification requirements within one year of their employment. Furthermore, the bill allows districts to contract with other law enforcement agencies to provide necessary law enforcement services.

Statutes affected:
introduced version: 73-25-19