Requires law enforcement officers in State to annually pass physical fitness examination; appropriates $500,000.
Impact
The bill stipulates that the Police Training Commission, in consultation with the Attorney General and the Director of the Division of Criminal Justice, will develop the standards for the physical fitness examination. These standards will consider an officer's age and gender and will be reviewed biennially. This provision marks a significant change in the current framework, aiming to hold officers to higher accountability regarding their physical capabilities, which is pivotal given the nature of their duties. Furthermore, the bill allocates $500,000 from the General Fund to support the implementation of these measures.
Summary
Bill A2723, introduced by Assemblyman Brian Bergen, mandates that all law enforcement officers in New Jersey, including full-time, part-time, and temporary officers, must successfully pass an annual physical fitness examination. This requirement aims to ensure that officers maintain a level of physical fitness appropriate for their duties, which include the detection, investigation, arrest, and conviction of individuals violating state laws. By establishing this obligatory testing, the bill seeks to enhance the readiness and effectiveness of law enforcement personnel across the state.
Contention
A notable aspect of A2723 is its requirement for the Police Training Commission to issue recommendations for disciplinary actions against officers who fail the physical fitness examination. This could include demotion or termination from their positions. The introduction of such consequences has sparked discussions about employee rights and the potential implications for officer retention, particularly regarding those who are unable to meet the physical standards due to age or other factors. Critics may argue that this could disproportionately affect older officers or those with long-standing health issues.
Permits exemption from civil service examination requirement for entry-level law enforcement officers, sheriff's officers, and county correctional police officers; permits hiring of such officers under certain conditions.
A resolution to direct the Clerk of the House of Representatives to only present to the Governor enrolled House bills finally passed by both houses of the One Hundred Third Legislature.