Georgia 2023-2024 Regular Session

Georgia House Bill HB1333

Introduced
2/20/24  

Caption

Law enforcement officers and agencies; county and municipal agencies to employ civilian personnel to investigate traffic accidents involving property damage; authorize

Impact

The introduction of civilian traffic investigators is anticipated to alleviate the burden on sworn law enforcement officers by delegating specific traffic investigation responsibilities to civilian personnel. This separation of duties aims to streamline the investigatory process in traffic accidents, potentially leading to quicker resolutions and enhanced productivity within law enforcement agencies. Furthermore, the bill outlines the parameters under which these civilians may operate, ensuring they do not replace sworn officers or possess law enforcement powers such as making arrests or carrying firearms.

Summary

House Bill 1333 seeks to amend the Official Code of Georgia Annotated to allow county and municipal law enforcement agencies to employ civilian personnel specifically designated as civilian traffic investigators. These investigators would be responsible for investigating traffic accidents involving property damage exceeding $500. The bill establishes the framework for the employment, training, and operational guidelines for these civilian investigators, aiming to enhance the efficiency of traffic-related investigations and enforcement.

Contention

A notable point of contention within the discussions surrounding HB 1333 centers on the delegation of investigative duties to civilian personnel, particularly regarding public perceptions of safety and accountability. While proponents argue that this approach will improve the handling of traffic incidents and safety on roads, critics may raise concerns about the adequacy of training and supervision of civilian investigators. Additionally, there could be debates about the implications for community trust in law enforcement if civilians assume a more prominent role in traffic management and investigations.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

GA HB915

Law enforcement officers and agencies; authorize county and municipal law enforcement agencies to employ civilian personnel to assist in certain investigations

GA HB1053

Law enforcement officers and agencies; local law enforcement involvement with immigration and cooperation with federal authorities; repeal provisions

GA S2574

Establishes "Uniform Crash Investigation Protocol Task Force" to establish uniform crash investigation protocol for State, county, and municipal law enforcement agencies when investigating certain motor vehicle and vessel crashes.

GA HB3309

Relating to the use of automated traffic control systems by local authorities and law enforcement agencies.

GA HB1862

Relating to the funding of, contracting with, and employment for law enforcement agencies in certain counties.

GA SB2679

Relating to the funding of, contracting with, and employment for law enforcement agencies in certain counties.

GA SB2143

Relating to the authority of a county to commission certain individuals as peace officers and establish certain law enforcement agencies.

GA S07593

Allows access to sealed and protected records to civilian law enforcement oversight entities conducting investigations and disciplinary proceedings for misconduct by police and peace officers.

GA HB2641

Prohibiting certain law enforcement agencies from hiring certain federal employees.

GA HB38

Provides relative to records of prosecutive, investigative, and law enforcement agencies and communications districts

Similar Bills

NJ S2832

Authorizes creation of local civilian review boards to review police operations and conduct; appropriates $600,000.

NJ S2733

Clarifies that civilian public safety directors of municipal, county, and State police departments do not have police powers.

CA AB1806

Department of Justice.

IA SF397

A bill for an act relating to assaults, including assaults on persons engaged in certain occupations and inmate assaults on department of corrections employees, and providing penalties. (Formerly SSB 1058.) Effective date: 07/01/2025.

GA HB915

Law enforcement officers and agencies; authorize county and municipal law enforcement agencies to employ civilian personnel to assist in certain investigations

IA HSB685

A bill for an act relating to assaults on persons engaged in certain occupations and harassment against public utility employees or contractors, and making penalties applicable.

IA SF2400

A bill for an act relating to assaults on persons engaged in certain occupations and harassment against public utility employees or contractors, and making penalties applicable.(Formerly SSB 3156.)

IA SSB3156

A bill for an act relating to assaults on persons engaged in certain occupations and harassment against public utility employees or contractors, and making penalties applicable.(See SF 2400.)