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HB 6215

Law enforcement: other; definition of law enforcement officer; revise to include depository security officer. Amends sec. 2 of 1965 PA 203 (MCL 28.602).

2023-2024 Regular Session Introduced by Alabas Farhat

Michigan bill expands "law enforcement officer" definition to include depository security workers, affecting legal protections, benefits, and authorities for private financial security personnel.

bill electronically reproduced 11/26/2024
#lawenforcement:other #stateagencies(existing):treasury #statefinance:other
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Bill Summary · HB 6215

Legislative bill overview

HB 6215 proposes amending Michigan's law enforcement definition statute to include depository security officers (such as armored car personnel and bank vault guards) within the legal definition of "law enforcement officer." This would extend certain legal protections, authorities, and potentially benefits historically reserved for traditional police and sheriff's deputies to private security personnel working in financial institutions.

Why is this important

Redefining who counts as a "law enforcement officer" has cascading legal consequences, potentially affecting workers' compensation eligibility, pension access, liability protections, use-of-force authority, and whether assaults against these workers are treated as crimes against law enforcement. The change could significantly impact both the benefits available to depository security workers and how the justice system treats incidents involving them.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope creep concerns: Expanding the legal definition may blur lines between public law enforcement and private security, raising questions about whether other security roles (mall security, nightclub bouncers) should follow
  • Authority and accountability differences: Private security operates under different training standards, oversight, and legal restrictions than sworn officers; granting them full "law enforcement officer" status may create accountability gaps
  • Cost implications: Extended benefits (workers' compensation, pensions, health insurance) could impose unfunded mandates on employers or require state subsidy, with unclear budget impact
  • Private vs. public distinction: Fundamental question about whether private security employees performing profit-generating functions should receive public law enforcement legal status typically earned through government employment and public accountability

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

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