Connecticut 2017 Regular Session

Connecticut Senate Bill SB00440

Introduced
1/19/17  
Introduced
1/19/17  
Refer
1/19/17  

Caption

An Act Concerning State And Local Police Handling Of Incidents Involving Individuals Affected With A Mental Illness Or Intellectual Or Developmental Disability.

Impact

This bill's enactment is anticipated to have significant implications for both law enforcement practices and public health. By integrating mental health professionals into police procedures, the bill seeks to reduce the likelihood of violent encounters that can occur during police interactions with individuals in crisis. Furthermore, the establishment of training requirements for police dispatchers aims to improve response times and protocols for crises involving mental health issues, drug overdoses, or domestic violence, potentially saving lives and alleviating family pressures during emergencies.

Summary

SB00440 aims to address the handling of incidents involving individuals affected by mental illnesses or intellectual or developmental disabilities by state and local police. The bill mandates that police training programs include a minimum of two hours focused specifically on these subjects, ensuring that officers are better equipped to deal with such situations appropriately. Additionally, the legislation requires police departments to have on-call mental health care providers available for incidents involving affected individuals, suggesting a proactive approach to crisis management in law enforcement.

Contention

However, the bill does face contention regarding the extent of its provisions and penalties. Critics may argue that the requirements for training and criminal penalties for excessive force could impose unrealistic burdens on police departments, particularly smaller ones with limited resources. Proponents emphasize the necessity of protecting vulnerable populations; nonetheless, there is an ongoing debate about how to balance public safety with the rights and needs of individuals experiencing mental health crises. This highlights the complexity of police reform in sensitive areas of public service and community safety.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

CT HB05293

An Act Concerning The Department Of Developmental Services' Recommendations Regarding Various Revisions To Developmental Services Statutes.

CT SB00001

An Act Concerning The Health And Safety Of Connecticut Residents.

CT HB05288

An Act Aligning State Law With Federal Law Concerning Service Animals.

CT HB05508

An Act Concerning Recommendations From The Juvenile Justice Policy And Oversight Committee.

CT SB00004

An Act Concerning Victims Of Domestic Violence, The Unsolicited Transmission Of Intimate Images By Means Of An Electronic Communication Device And The Impermissible Use Of Nondisclosure Agreements In The Workplace.

CT SB00431

An Act Concerning Fees For Copying, Reviewing And Redacting Records Created By Police Body-worn Recording Equipment And Dashboard Cameras.

CT HB05200

An Act Concerning Health Care Accessibility For Persons With A Disability.

CT SB00005

An Act Concerning School Resources.

CT HB05474

An Act Concerning Municipal Approvals For Housing Development, Fines For Violations Of Local Ordinances, Regulation Of Short-term Rentals, Rental Assistance Program Administration, Notices Of Rent Increases And The Housing Environmental Improvement Revolving Loan And Grant Fund.

CT SB00312

An Act Concerning A Janitorial Work Program For Persons With A Disability And Persons With A Disadvantage.

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