H.R. 5211: Peace Officer Standards and Training Agency Information Access Clarification Act

This bill, known as the Peace Officer Standards and Training Agency Information Access Clarification Act, aims to enhance the ability of peace officer standards and training agencies to access various criminal history records. Below are the main components of the bill:

Authorization for Access

The bill proposes amendments to federal law that would allow peace officer standards and training agencies to officially access criminal history records. This access is intended to help these agencies establish standards for hiring, training, ethical conduct, and retention of law enforcement officers in their respective states.

Definition of Terms

• Peace Officer Standards and Training Agency: This is defined as a state agency with the authority to set standards regarding the hiring and training of law enforcement officers. Such standards can include processes for certification, licensing, or similar qualifications.
• State Definition: The term "State" is expanded to include all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam, American Samoa, and other U.S. territories.

Regulatory Amendments

The bill mandates that the Attorney General update relevant regulations within 180 days of the bill's enactment, ensuring that the new provisions are integrated into the Code of Federal Regulations.

Implications

By granting access to these records, the bill aims to promote accountability and thorough vetting processes for law enforcement personnel, potentially leading to improved law enforcement standards across jurisdictions.

Relevant Companies

None found