Alabama Senate Bill SB174

Alabama 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/5/23
• Refer: 4/5/23
• Report Pass: 4/11/23
• Engrossed: 4/27/23
• Refer: 4/27/23
• Report Pass: 5/10/23

Caption

Relating to the Teachers' Retirement System and the Employees' Retirement System; to amend Section 16-1-44.1, Code of Alabama 1975; to provide further for the compensation of retired law enforcement officers providing services as school resource officers for local boards of education.

Impact

The passage of SB174 could lead to an increased presence of qualified law enforcement personnel in schools, thereby enhancing security measures in educational environments. By providing a clear path for retired officers to work as school resource officers, this legislative change may address some concerns over school safety, particularly in areas facing challenges with crime or safety issues. It facilitates the engagement of seasoned professionals who have extensive experience in law enforcement, potentially creating a more secure atmosphere in schools.

Summary

Senate Bill 174 seeks to amend existing provisions within the Alabama Code relating to the Teachers' Retirement System and the Employees' Retirement System. Specifically, it addresses the compensation frameworks for retired law enforcement officers who serve as school resource officers within local educational institutions. The bill permits these retired officers to receive compensation for their services without it impacting their pension allowances, creating an avenue for retired officers to contribute to school safety without financial penalties from their retirement benefits.

Contention

While the bill appears to promote safety measures in schools, some discussions may arise regarding the implications of having armed retired officials in educational settings. Concerns around appropriateness, the nature of policing in schools, and the psychological impact on students could be points of contention in future legislative discussions. It remains to be seen how local education boards will implement these provisions and what additional training will be mandated for retired officers employed as school resource officers.