Tennessee House Bill HB0909

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/30/23
• Refer: 2/2/23
• Refer: 2/28/23
• Refer: 3/8/23

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 7; Title 8 and Title 29, relative to reserve law enforcement officers.

Impact

The amendments proposed in HB0909 are aimed at clarifying the role and recognition of reserve law enforcement officers in Tennessee. By incorporating these officers into definitions associated with first responders, the bill will ensure they receive consideration as key components in emergency response scenarios. This could potentially lead to improved support, training, and resource allocation within local law enforcement agencies that utilize reserve officers, enhancing overall public safety.

Summary

House Bill 0909 aims to amend existing Tennessee laws concerning reserve law enforcement officers. The bill modifies various sections of the Tennessee Code Annotated, specifically Titles 7, 8, and 29. One of the notable changes includes the explicit inclusion of 'commissioned reserve law enforcement officers' in definitions pertaining to first responders within state law. This bill recognizes reserve officers formally in contexts where emergency response roles are defined, thereby enhancing their legal standing as part of the first responder category.

Contention

While the bill appears to have the support of law enforcement agencies, there may be concerns regarding the implications of formally integrating reserve officers into the legal framework governing emergency services. Critics could argue that without additional provisions for training and accountability, this inclusion may lead to challenges in maintaining consistent standards among all first responders. The amendments could prompt discussions about how reserve officers are utilized and whether existing policies provide adequate oversight and resources.