Bill > SB0284

This bill establishes new rules for law enforcement civilian oversight boards and commissions in Indiana, which are entities created by local governments (counties, municipalities, or townships) to provide civilian review of law enforcement agencies. The key provision is that, with the exception of merit boards and commissions (which are established under a different law, IC 36-8-3.5, and deal with personnel matters like hiring and promotions), any such oversight board or commission can only offer advice to the law enforcement agency it oversees and cannot make decisions that the agency is legally required to follow. This means these oversight bodies will have an advisory role rather than the power to enforce their recommendations, and this rule applies to both existing and future oversight entities, taking effect on July 1, 2026.

Justice, Military Affairs and Security

https://iga.in.gov/legislative/2026/bills/senate/284/details