Wisconsin Assembly Bill AB852

Wisconsin 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 12/22/23
• Refer: 12/22/23
• Failed: 4/15/24

Caption

Small law enforcement agency training grant pilot program, granting rule-making authority, and making an appropriation. (FE)

Impact

If passed, the bill would create a structured process for small law enforcement agencies to seek financial assistance for training new recruits, thereby potentially enhancing public safety through better-prepared law officers. The Department of Administration would be tasked with administering this pilot program, which includes developing guidelines for grant applications and ensuring appropriate oversight of funded training costs. This could lead to stronger law enforcement personnel in communities served by small agencies, which often struggle with resource constraints.

Summary

Assembly Bill 852 aims to establish a pilot program for grants focused on training costs for new law enforcement officers in small law enforcement agencies. The intent of the bill is to provide financial aid to these agencies, defined as those employing fewer than 25 law enforcement officers. Agencies can apply for grants to cover the costs associated with training preservice students and the employment costs for six months of onboarding new officers. This initiative is designed to address the challenges small agencies face regarding retaining personnel and filling existing vacancies.

Contention

During legislative discussions, there may be concerns around the program's sustainability and whether the grants would address deeper systemic issues regarding the recruitment and retention of law enforcement personnel. Critics might argue that the bill does not provide a long-term solution to the concerns about public safety, while supporters are likely to highlight its potential as a critical mechanism to alleviate staffing shortages in small police departments. The requirement for recruits to commit to at least one year of service after training could also ignite dialogue about recruitment practices and workforce stability within these agencies.