AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 38-8-107, relative to law enforcement officer training.
Impact
The legislation mandates the commission to create a continuing education training curriculum that all law enforcement agencies across Tennessee must implement. Officers currently employed must complete this newly developed diversity training program by July 1, 2024, while new hires must enroll in an approved recruit training program and complete an annual in-service training session, including this diversity training. This change is expected to contribute significantly to improving relations between law enforcement and minority communities, fostering better understanding and communication.
Summary
Senate Bill 1248, introduced by Senator Akbari, aims to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, specifically Section 38-8-107, in relation to law enforcement officer training. The primary intent of the bill is to enhance the training of law enforcement officers concerning diversity, race relations, and cultural awareness. In response to increasing concerns about the use of force against minority individuals, the bill emphasizes that exposure to diverse communities can aid officers in better understanding and communicating with these populations, potentially altering their perception of threats in various encounters.
Contention
While the bill is framed as a necessary step towards improving public safety and community relations, there may be areas of contention regarding the implementation of such training. Critics might argue about the effectiveness of mandated diversity training and whether it truly addresses the underlying issues of discrimination and bias within law enforcement practices. Supporters, on the other hand, argue that such training is crucial for modern policing, particularly amid rising tensions and public scrutiny over law enforcement behaviors.