Louisiana House Bill HB837

Louisiana 2014 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/10/14
• Refer: 3/10/14
• Report Pass: 4/14/14
• Engrossed: 4/22/14
• Refer: 4/23/14
• Report Pass: 5/19/14
• Enrolled: 5/27/14
• Chaptered: 6/12/14
• Passed: 6/12/14

Caption

Provides relative to training requirements for municipal chiefs of police

Impact

The enactment of HB 837 directly impacts state laws regarding law enforcement training standards. By changing the requirements for municipal chiefs of police, the bill aims to streamline training processes while maintaining a baseline for education standards. Supporters of the bill argue that such an adjustment will allow for better allocation of resources for chiefs and their departments, enabling them to focus on critical areas of law enforcement rather than meeting extensive training requirements.

Summary

House Bill 837, introduced by Representative Havard, amends existing training requirements for municipal chiefs of police in Louisiana. The bill specifically alters the number of required continuing education hours, reducing the mandate from twenty-four hours to twelve hours within a twenty-four-month period. This legislative change is aimed at ensuring that police chiefs still receive necessary training but with a more flexible and less burdensome requirement.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 837 appears to be generally positive, particularly among police chiefs and city officials who view the reduction in training hours as a pragmatic decision. Many believe that the previous twelve-hour requirement was excessive and that the new reduced requirement will enhance the efficiency of ongoing training programs for law enforcement personnel without compromising the quality of education.

Contention

However, there are points of contention regarding whether this reduction in training hours could potentially impact the professionalism and preparedness of police chiefs. Some critics argue that less training could lead to gaps in knowledge and skills needed for effective law enforcement leadership. This debate presents a tension between the desire for efficiency in training protocols and the necessity for comprehensive education in law enforcement practices.