Connecticut House Bill HB05492

Connecticut 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/17/23
• Refer: 1/17/23

Caption

An Act Concerning The Arrest Powers Of Police Officers Responding To Requests For Mutual Aid.

Impact

The bill's passage would likely streamline law enforcement responses during mutual aid situations, allowing for more cohesive action by multiple police departments. Supporters argue that this aligns the powers of officers responding to assist neighboring communities with the legal authority they possess in their own jurisdictions. By doing so, the bill seeks to optimize public safety operations, particularly during emergencies where officers from different municipalities may need to work in tandem.

Summary

House Bill 5492 is a proposed act aimed at clarifying the arrest powers of municipal police officers who respond to requests for mutual aid from other municipalities. The bill amends section 54-1f of the general statutes to ensure that municipal officers providing assistance under a mutual aid agreement have the same authority to arrest in the assisting municipality as they do in their own. This provision aims to enhance cooperation among police departments, particularly in situations where immediate support is needed to maintain public safety.

Contention

While there may not be direct opposition highlighted in public discussions, concerns could arise regarding the potential for overreach or the consistency of enforcement standards between different municipalities. This bill could raise questions about accountability and the need for standardized training to ensure that police practices remain consistent, regardless of jurisdiction. The implications of unified arrest powers during mutual aid calls could provoke debate among law enforcement agencies about resource allocation and operational strategies.