The increased presence and enforcement activities of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) have left many Pennsylvanians fearful. These concerns have been intensified by recent tragedies involving ICE that resulted in the deaths of two U.S. citizens, Ren e Nicole Good and Alex Jeffrey Pretti. At the same time, under current law, individuals with prior federal or state law enforcement experience can bypass standard training requirements by applying for a training waiver when seeking employment as a police officer.
To address this, we are introducing legislation to establish a formal review process for ICE agents seeking to transfer to any law enforcement agency in Pennsylvania. This process will mirror the framework created under existing state law for individuals seeking employment with a school and would require a comprehensive review of records, including disciplinary actions, use-of-force complaints, and any pending or completed investigations. The review would be conducted by the Municipal Police Officers’ Education and Training Commission, adding an additional layer of oversight to ensure that future law enforcement hires meet the highest professional and ethical standards.
We urge you to support this important and timely piece of legislation. Help to strengthen accountability and uphold the values of our Commonwealth.