Bill > SB53

This bill introduces a comprehensive framework for law enforcement agency accreditation in Alaska, establishing three tiers of standards and practices that law enforcement agencies must meet. The legislation requires municipal police departments, Alaska state trooper posts, village public safety officer posts, and regional public safety officer posts to obtain and maintain accreditation by January 1, 2027. The Criminal Justice Standards Council will be responsible for developing minimum standards covering areas such as agency administration, bias-based policing, use of force, response to family violence, body-worn camera usage, misconduct complaints, electronic control weapon usage, eyewitness identification procedures, death notifications, and police pursuits. These standards will be based on guidelines from the International Association of Chiefs of Police and the Commission of Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies. The bill also includes provisions that protect law enforcement agencies from certain liability claims related to their accreditation efforts and requires the Department of Public Safety to assist agencies in achieving accreditation, with special support for rural agencies. Additionally, the bill stipulates that agencies without accreditation will be ineligible for state grants, creating a strong incentive for compliance. The three-tiered accreditation system is designed to progressively improve law enforcement practices, enhance service delivery, and increase public confidence in policing.

Government Affairs

https://www.akleg.gov/basis/Bill/Detail/34?Root=SB53