Bill > HB1604

This bill mandates comprehensive firearms training for police officers in specific municipalities, requiring officers to attend and complete in-service firearms training courses conducted by certified instructors at least four times per year. The training must include both physical and virtual simulation scenarios designed to prepare officers for potential use-of-force situations. Law enforcement agencies are required to make simulation training available at least twice annually, subject to facility availability. Certified firearms instructors and agency chiefs must document and maintain detailed training records, including the number of rounds fired, officer scores, and weapons used, which must be entered into the commission's training system within 30 days of each calendar year. Officers who fail to complete the required training will be placed on administrative leave until training is completed. The bill specifically applies to officers in counties of the second class A with populations between 565,000 and 600,000 (as per the 2020 census) and provides precise definitions for key terms like "certified law enforcement firearms instructor," "law enforcement agency," and "simulation training." The legislation is designed to enhance officer preparedness and standardize training protocols through comprehensive, documented firearms education.

Justice

https://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billinfo/bill_history.cfm?syear=2025&sind=0&body=H&type=B&bn=1604