Relative to a court security officer training program.
Impact
The implementation of SB130 is projected to lead to increased state expenditures of at least $100,000 annually starting in fiscal year 2024. The Council will require funding to develop the curriculum, provide the necessary training, and oversee the certification process, indicating a significant commitment of state resources. This financial impact may also indirectly affect the Judicial Branch depending on how training and certification costs are managed.
Summary
SB130 is a legislative act aimed at establishing a training and certification program specifically for court security officers (CSOs) within the state of New Hampshire. The bill assigns the responsibility for this education and training program to the Police Standards and Training Council. The intent is to ensure that all CSOs, who are defined in the bill as security officers employed by the judicial branch under the direction of the Chief Justice, are sufficiently trained in their roles to enhance courtroom security and safety.
Contention
While the bill appears to be straightforward, potential points of contention may arise regarding budget allocations and the prioritization of funding for this program compared to other judicial needs. Additionally, discussions may surface around the adequacy and effectiveness of the training program set forth by the Police Standards and Training Council, as stakeholders assess the potential outcomes of enhanced security measures in courts.
Additional_notes
The bill explicitly states that the training program needs the approval of the Chief Justice to develop and implement the education and certification program. This ties the initiative closely to judicial leadership and may create a structured yet potentially bureaucratic pathway for involving the judicial authority in the operational aspects of court security.
Relative to training and procedures for zoning and planning boards and relative to financial investments and incentives for affordable housing development.
Relative to the release of a defendant pending trial, directing the establishment of an electronic monitoring program for criminal defendants released on bail, and making an appropriation therefor.