HF2301

Purpose of the Bill

The purpose of this legislative proposal is to allow certain retired peace officers, firefighters, and teachers to participate in the state insurance program and to establish a new program aimed at addressing the shortage of peace officers. This program will provide pathways for college degree holders to complete necessary education and training for a career as a peace officer.

Main Provisions

• Retired Officers and Participation in State Insurance:

  • Retired peace officers, alongside firefighters and teachers, will be permitted to join the state employees’ insurance program until they reach the age of 65. The costs would be borne by the participants themselves, without exclusions for preexisting conditions.

• Peace Officer Education and Training Program:

  • A new intensive training program is introduced for college graduates to become licensed peace officers, addressing the state’s peace officer shortage.
  • Law enforcement agencies that recruit and train these candidates will be eligible for reimbursement of up to $50,000 per candidate.
  • Eligibility for additional bonuses and student loan reimbursements is outlined for employers who retain these officers and for candidates who complete service.

Significant Changes

• Insurance Program Amendments:

  • Retired peace officers among other specified retirees can now participate in the state’s insurance program, marking a notable expansion of eligibility to include these groups.

• Training Program Implementation:

  • Establishes an eight-month intensive educational and skills training curriculum to facilitate the rapid preparation of peace officers, collaborating with designated educational institutions.

Relevant Terms

retired peace officers, state insurance program, peace officer shortage, law enforcement training, college degree holders, intensive education, reimbursement grants, retention bonus, student loan reimbursement, state employees, preexisting conditions policy.