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HB 915

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

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Marvin Lim and 1 co-sponsor

HB 915 allows Georgia law enforcement to hire civilian responders for traffic and property crime investigations, freeing sworn officers for serious duties and enhancing community engagement.

House Second Readers
#crimesandoffenses(criminalcode) #motorvehiclesandtraffic #lawenforcementofficersandagencies
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Bill Summary · HB 915

Summary of House Bill 915

Bill Number: HB 915
Title: Law enforcement officers and agencies; authorize county and municipal law enforcement agencies to employ civilian personnel to assist in certain investigations
Status: House First Readers
Introduced: April 02, 2025
Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 915 aims to amend Title 35 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated to allow county and municipal law enforcement agencies to employ civilian personnel, referred to as "civilian community responders," to assist in specific investigations. The bill seeks to enhance the efficiency of law enforcement operations by utilizing non-sworn personnel for certain tasks, thereby allowing sworn officers to focus on more critical law enforcement duties.

Key Provisions

  1. Definition of Civilian Community Responder:

    • A civilian community responder is defined as a nonsworn law enforcement employee who assists in:
      • Investigating traffic accidents
      • Investigating property crimes
      • Educating the public about state laws and local ordinances
      • Searching for missing persons

  2. Employment and Training:

    • County and municipal law enforcement agencies are authorized to employ, designate, equip, and train civilian community responders.
    • Civilian community responders must complete a training program established by the Georgia Peace Officer Standards and Training Council, which includes at least four hours of instruction and four weeks of field training.

  3. Limitations on Authority:

    • Civilian community responders are prohibited from exercising any powers vested in sworn law enforcement officers, including the power of arrest.
    • They cannot possess or carry firearms and must wear uniforms that are distinct from those of sworn officers.

  4. Traffic and Accident Reporting:

    • Civilian community responders will have the authority to direct and regulate traffic for the purpose of towing or removing obstructing vehicles.
    • They will utilize uniform motor vehicle accident reports and procedures.

  5. Penalties for Interference:

    • The bill establishes penalties for individuals who willfully obstruct or interfere with civilian community responders in their duties.

Impact

  • Law Enforcement Agencies: The bill allows law enforcement agencies to expand their workforce with civilian personnel, potentially improving response times and community engagement.
  • Public Safety: By allowing civilian responders to handle specific investigations, sworn officers can dedicate more time to serious crimes and emergencies.
  • Community Involvement: The inclusion of civilian personnel may foster greater community involvement in law enforcement activities and education.

Procedural Aspects

  • The bill was introduced on April 02, 2025, and is currently in the House First Readers stage as of April 04, 2025.
  • Further legislative actions will determine the bill's progression through the legislative process.

In summary, HB 915 represents a significant shift in how law enforcement agencies in Georgia can utilize civilian personnel to enhance their operational capabilities while maintaining the integrity and authority of sworn officers.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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