Oklahoma Senate Bill SB1364

Oklahoma 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/5/24
• Refer: 2/6/24

Caption

Law enforcement training; modifying elements of training required by the Council on Law Enforcement Education and Training (CLEET). Effective date.

Impact

The bill is expected to significantly influence the way law enforcement training is conducted in Oklahoma. By focusing on mental health issues and constitutional rights, the bill aims to equip officers with the tools to address situations that require sensitivity to mental health and an understanding of citizens' rights. This professional development could improve interactions between law enforcement and the communities they serve, potentially leading to better outcomes in critical situations involving mental health crises or citizen rights infringements.

Summary

Senate Bill 1364 aims to enhance the training requirements for law enforcement officers in Oklahoma. The bill modifies sections of the Oklahoma Statutes related to continuing education and training for peace officers, mandating that all certified officers complete additional training on mental health and the protection of citizens' rights as enumerated in both the U.S. and Oklahoma constitutions. Effective November 1, 2025, it introduces a minimum of one hour of this new training within the existing continuing education requirements.

Contention

However, the bill may face some contention, particularly from advocacy groups and local law enforcement agencies concerned about the implementation of these new training requirements. Critics might argue that additional mandates could increase the training burden on agencies that are already stretched for resources. There is also a debate surrounding the scope of what constitutes a violation of rights and whether such training can adequately prepare officers to make those determinations in high-pressure scenarios.