Louisiana 2017 Regular Session

Louisiana House Bill HB97

Introduced
3/23/17  
Refer
3/23/17  
Refer
4/10/17  
Refer
4/10/17  
Report Pass
4/27/17  
Report Pass
4/27/17  
Engrossed
5/9/17  
Engrossed
5/9/17  
Refer
5/10/17  
Refer
5/10/17  
Report Pass
5/23/17  
Report Pass
5/23/17  
Enrolled
5/31/17  
Enrolled
5/31/17  
Chaptered
6/12/17  
Chaptered
6/12/17  
Passed
6/12/17  

Caption

Provides relative to certification requirements for law enforcement officers investigating traffic fatalities

Impact

The enactment of HB 97 will have a significant impact on the state's laws relating to homicide investigations. It streamlines the process for law enforcement by waiving the mandatory training for officers involved in vehicular homicide cases. This change is intended to ensure quicker responses and decisions in these types of incidents, recognizing the differences in the nature of vehicular homicides compared to traditional homicides, which may require more specialized training.

Summary

House Bill 97 aims to amend the requirements for peace officers in Louisiana concerning the training needed for investigating vehicular homicides. Previously, law enforcement officers were required to complete a specific homicide investigator training program before being assigned to lead homicide cases. However, the new bill establishes an exception for officers handling cases of vehicular homicide, effectively allowing them to take the lead even without this extensive training.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 97 appears to be generally positive, particularly among law enforcement professionals. Supporters argue that the exemption allows for more efficient investigation processes in a critical area of public safety, suggesting that it could improve how cases of vehicular homicide are managed. Critics, however, may voice concerns regarding the potential downsides of less trained personnel leading such investigations, although these sentiments are not prominent in the available discussions.

Contention

Notable points of contention center around the balance between equipping law enforcement with the necessary training and allowing them flexibility in urgent circumstances. While some stakeholders may appreciate the reduced training requirements for vehicular homicide investigations, others may argue that it could compromise the quality of investigations and the justice process. This aspect underscores ongoing discussions regarding law enforcement's operational effectiveness and accountability within the state's judicial framework.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

LA SF65

A bill for an act relating to background investigations for certification or recertification as a law enforcement officer.

LA HB38

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

LA SB1479

Certification of law-enforcement officers; out-of-state certifications recognized, requirements.

LA HB341

Provides for rights of law enforcement officers while under investigation

LA HB590

Provides with respect to training law enforcement officers regarding certain traffic stops

LA S261

Concerns criminal investigations of law enforcement officers.

LA HB3459

Establishes "Preston's Law" which establishes standards of conduct for law enforcement officers when conducting homicide investigations

LA A2765

Requires certain law enforcement officers to complete human trafficking training.

LA HSB289

A bill for an act relating to the Iowa law enforcement academy council including the revocation or suspension of certifications of law enforcement officers and reserve peace officers, and administrative investigations under the peace officer, public safety, and emergency personnel bill of rights, and including effective date and retroactive applicability provisions.

LA AB1245

An act to amend Section 6108 of the Public Contract Code, relating to public contracts.

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