SENATE BILL REPORT
SB 5435
This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent. |
As of February 4, 2011
Title: An act relating to background investigations for peace officers and reserve officers.
Brief Description: Requiring background investigations for peace officers and reserve officers as a condition of employment.
Sponsors: Senators Hargrove, Pflug, Kline, Fraser, Shin, Kohl-Welles and Roach; by request of Criminal Justice Training Commission.
Brief History:
Committee Activity: Human Services & Corrections: 2/04/11.
SENATE COMMITTEE ON HUMAN SERVICES & CORRECTIONS |
Staff: Kevin Black (786-7747)
Background: The Criminal Justice Training Commission (CJTC) certifies applicants for the position of fully commissioned peace officer or fully commissioned reserve peace officer. The CJTC may require such an applicant to take and pass a polygraph examination and a psychological examination. Any fully commissioned peace officer or fully commissioned reserve peace officer employed after July 25, 2005, or whose certification has lapsed due to a break of more than 24 months in the officer's service, must also take and pass these examinations.
Summary of Bill: In addition to a polygraph examination and psychological examination, an applicant for the position of fully commissioned peace officer or fully commissioned reserve peace officer must submit to a background investigation including a check of criminal history. The CJTC is authorized to use these tests to judge an applicant's suitability for employment. The same rules apply to a fully commissioned peace officer or fully commissioned reserve peace officer employed after July 25, 2005, or whose certification has lapsed due to a break of more than 24 months in the officer's service.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Not requested.
Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: No.
Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.
Staff Summary of Public Testimony: PRO: This is a technical bill which helps us in our certification process. Currently the statute requires an applicant to pass a polygraph, but does not require the answers to be suitable for employment.
Persons Testifying: PRO: Don Pierce, Washington Association of Sheriffs and Police Chiefs; Joe Hawe, Criminal Justice Training Commission.