New Jersey Assembly Bill A1604

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/11/22
• Refer: 1/11/22

Caption

Extends Class Two special law enforcement training for time deployed.

Impact

Currently, the law allows municipalities to appoint a limited number of part-time special law enforcement officers, particularly for seasonal positions in communities that require additional law enforcement presence during peak times such as summer. A Class Two special law enforcement officer holds full police powers and the ability to carry firearms, which increases their responsibility in maintaining public safety. By amending the period of certification, this bill aids in preserving the qualifications of those who have served in the military, thereby expanding the pool of available candidates without undermining safety and training standards.

Summary

Assembly Bill A1604 seeks to amend the existing provisions regarding Class Two special law enforcement officers in New Jersey. The primary aim of the bill is to extend the three-year eligibility period during which a member of the United States military, who has completed the Class Two special law enforcement officer training, can be appointed without needing to retake the training. This extension is equal to the duration of their active military service deployment, thereby ensuring that military personnel returning to civilian life can seamlessly transition into law enforcement roles without facing the hurdles of retraining.

Contention

While the bill generally seeks to support military personnel, it may prompt discussions on public safety and the implications of extending certifications without repeated training. Some stakeholders may express concern over whether the extension could compromise the preparedness of returning officers due to the passage of time and the evolving nature of law enforcement training. However, proponents argue that the unique challenges faced by veterans returning to civilian life warrant such accommodations, aiming to balance support for military members with the imperative of maintaining effective law enforcement standards.