Bill > S454

This bill introduces a comprehensive set of measures to enhance law enforcement standards and support community safety in North Carolina. The bill allocates $1 million to help law enforcement agencies identify and apply for grants, and provides another $1 million to support community policing initiatives. An additional $1.5 million is earmarked for grants to recognize exemplary officers and agencies that meet diversity benchmarks, with individual grants capped at $10,000. The bill also revises use of force policies by explicitly classifying neck restraints as deadly force and requiring officers to use the minimum necessary force and attempt de-escalation tactics. It mandates that the Attorney General develop uniform use of force policies in consultation with law enforcement associations. Furthermore, the bill establishes new hiring standards, including raising the minimum age for law enforcement officers to 21 and expanding background check criteria to include multiple misdemeanor convictions. The bill also provides $2 million in grants to help law enforcement agencies fund detective positions to investigate serious crimes. A severability clause ensures that if any part of the act is found unconstitutional, the rest of the bill remains valid. Most provisions are set to take effect on July 1, 2025, or January 1, 2026, depending on the specific section.

https://www.ncleg.gov/BillLookUp/2025/S454