The bill, S.B. No. 2818, mandates the inclusion of a training program for peace officers focused on interacting with individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) as part of their minimum curriculum requirements. Specifically, it adds a new subsection (u) to Section 1701.253 of the Occupations Code, which requires officers to complete the training program established under the newly created Section 1701.273. This training program must be at least two hours long and cover various topics, including understanding the nature of ASD, effective communication strategies, recognizing potential abuse situations, and ensuring the safety of individuals with ASD in correctional facilities.

The Texas Commission on Law Enforcement is tasked with establishing and maintaining this training program, which must be evidence-based and address the unique needs of individuals with autism. The bill stipulates that the new curriculum requirements will apply only to officers who begin their training on or after January 1, 2026, and it is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Occupations Code 1701.253 (Occupations Code 1701)