The bill amends sections 109.71 and 109.79 of the Revised Code and enacts section 109.7413, which introduces mandatory emotional intelligence training for peace officers in Ohio. This training is defined as the ability to recognize and manage one's own emotions and those of others, covering aspects such as self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, and relationship management. The attorney general is responsible for establishing rules regarding the training requirements and timeline for peace officers. Additionally, the training curriculum at the Ohio peace officer training academy will be updated to include this emotional intelligence training alongside existing courses on crisis intervention and child-related issues.

Moreover, the bill allows tactical medical professionals and fire investigators to attend training courses at the academy to qualify for carrying firearms while on duty, with the training being comparable to existing mandates. The executive director of the Ohio peace officer training commission will have the authority to certify those who complete these courses. The bill also extends similar training provisions to county correctional officers and clarifies definitions related to law enforcement roles and training terms. Notably, it repeals the previous sections 109.71 and 109.79, thereby streamlining the legal framework for these training requirements and definitions.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 109.71, 109.79