Summary of Bill S 946

Bill Number: S 946

Title: Authorizes the removal of police officer candidates from an eligible list when such candidate does not meet psychological fitness requirements or lacks good moral character standards

Status: Returned to Senate

Introduced: January 08, 2025

Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

Bill S 946 aims to enhance the standards for police officer candidates by ensuring that only those who meet specific psychological fitness and moral character requirements are eligible for appointment. The intent is to promote public safety and trust in law enforcement by ensuring that candidates possess the necessary mental health stability and ethical standards.

Key Provisions

• Removal from Eligible List: The bill authorizes the removal of candidates from the police officer eligible list if they fail to meet established psychological fitness requirements or do not demonstrate good moral character.

• Psychological Fitness Requirements: The bill outlines that candidates must undergo psychological evaluations to assess their mental fitness for the role of a police officer.

• Good Moral Character Standards: Candidates must also provide evidence of good moral character, which may include background checks and assessments of past behavior.

Impact

• Police Departments: The bill directly affects police departments by establishing stricter criteria for hiring new officers, potentially leading to a more qualified and reliable police force.

• Candidates: Individuals seeking employment as police officers will face more rigorous evaluations, which may reduce the number of applicants who qualify for positions.

• Public Trust: By ensuring that only candidates who meet these standards are hired, the bill aims to enhance public confidence in law enforcement agencies.

Legislative Timeline

• January 08, 2025: Bill introduced and referred to the Civil Service and Pensions Committee.
• May 06, 2025: First report calendar.
• May 28, 2025: Passed in the Senate and delivered to the Assembly.
• June 06, 2025: Substituted for companion bill A 3295 and ordered to third reading.
• June 10, 2025: Passed in the Assembly and returned to the Senate.

Related Bills

• A 3295: Companion bill that addresses similar issues regarding police officer candidate evaluations.
• S 8766: A prior-session bill that may have laid the groundwork for the current legislation.

This summary provides an overview of Bill S 946, highlighting its purpose, key provisions, and the potential impact on police hiring practices and public safety.