The bill amends Section 3311 of Title 70 of the Oklahoma Statutes, focusing on the Council on Law Enforcement Education and Training (CLEET) and the certification process for law enforcement officers. It introduces stricter background investigation requirements, including fingerprint searches with the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, psychological evaluations, and verification of educational qualifications. Notably, the bill prohibits the certification of permanent resident aliens, although it provides an exception to this rule. It also clarifies that individuals with pending criminal charges or undergoing mental health treatment are ineligible for certification, as are those currently subject to revocation of their peace officer certification or convicted of certain crimes unless they have received a full pardon.

Additionally, the bill outlines the responsibilities of CLEET, including the appointment of an Executive Director, the establishment of committees for training standards, and the ability to certify canine teams for law enforcement purposes. It mandates that law enforcement agencies report hiring and termination of officers within a specified timeframe and establishes penalties for submitting false information in applications. The bill also emphasizes the need for law enforcement agencies to maintain updated contact information with CLEET and introduces provisions for the certification of tribal police officers under the same conditions as state officers. The act is set to take effect on November 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 70-3311
Floor (House): 70-3311