Louisiana House Bill HCR84

Louisiana 2021 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/11/21
• Refer: 5/12/21
• Report Pass: 5/13/21
• Engrossed: 5/26/21
• Refer: 5/27/21
• Report Pass: 6/1/21
• Passed: 6/7/21

Caption

Requests the State Police Commission to adopt policies that reflect legislation recommended by the Police Training, Screening, and De-escalation Task Force

Impact

If enacted, HCR84 would impact state laws governing police conduct by implementing new standards regarding investigations of law enforcement employees. Notably, the resolution requests a reduction in the time officers have to secure representation during investigations and increases the duration for completing investigations. Additionally, the bill calls for maintaining records of sustained complaints in law enforcement files for up to ten years. These changes reflect a push for greater accountability and oversight within law enforcement practices in Louisiana.

Summary

House Concurrent Resolution 84 (HCR84) urges the Louisiana State Police Commission to adopt standard policies based on the recommendations from the Police Training, Screening, and De-escalation Task Force. The bill highlights the need for uniformity in police procedures and emphasizes training in areas such as anti-bias, procedural justice, and community relations. Aimed at fostering trust between law enforcement and the public, the bill seeks to implement significant changes within the state's policing framework to improve accountability and transparency.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HCR84 mainly aligns along lines of support for police reform, echoed by lawmakers and community advocates who see it as a necessary step toward reestablishing public trust in the law enforcement community. While the bill has garnered unanimous support in the legislature, some dissenters may express concerns over the practical implications of enforcing these new policies, particularly in terms of resources and training for law enforcement agencies.

Contention

Some notable points of contention surrounding HCR84 may arise regarding the specifics of implementation, particularly with policies prohibiting chokeholds and no-knock warrants. While proponents argue that these measures are essential for protecting civil liberties and ensuring humane treatment by law enforcement, critics may express concerns about the potential challenges for officers in volatile situations. The dialogue indicates a broader debate on finding the balance between effective law enforcement practices and safeguarding community rights.