The bill amends Section 16-52-2 of the General Laws to allow the board of education to appoint campus police officers at public higher educational institutions, granting them the authority to carry firearms subject to specific training requirements. Campus police officers must complete a course of firearm instruction by October 1, 2025, as provided by the Rhode Island police officers commission on standards and training, and they will be subject to in-service training requirements. The board of education is also tasked with adopting rules and regulations to implement these provisions.

Additionally, the bill amends Section 42-28.6-1 to include campus police officers in the definition of "law enforcement officer" under the Law Enforcement Officers' Bill of Rights, ensuring that they are afforded the same rights, duties, and responsibilities as other law enforcement officers in the state. The act will take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
5666: 16-52-2, 42-28.6-1