House Bill 58, sponsored by Hakeem, amends Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 38, Chapter 8, concerning the qualifications for law enforcement officers. The bill specifically revises the criteria for determining a candidate's moral character by deleting the previous language in subdivision (8) and replacing it with a new requirement. The new provision mandates that a thorough investigation be conducted by the employing agency to assess the candidate's moral character. Additionally, if the candidate has prior law enforcement experience, the employing agency is required to contact any previous law enforcement agency that employed the individual as part of this investigation.

This bill aims to enhance the vetting process for law enforcement officers in Tennessee by ensuring that their moral character is thoroughly evaluated, particularly for those with prior experience in the field. The act is set to take effect immediately upon becoming law, emphasizing the importance of public welfare in the legislative process.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 38-8-106