WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

A 7529

Relates to granting peace officer status to park rangers of Erie county

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Pat Burke

Bill A 7529 empowers Erie County park rangers as peace officers, enhancing their ability to enforce laws, improve public safety, and protect natural resources.

REFERRED TO RULES
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · A 7529

Summary of Bill A 7529

Bill Number: A 7529
Title: Relates to granting peace officer status to park rangers of Erie County
Status: Referred to Rules
Introduced: April 01, 2025
Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

Bill A 7529 aims to enhance the authority and responsibilities of park rangers in Erie County by granting them peace officer status. This designation would empower park rangers to enforce laws and regulations more effectively within their jurisdictions, thereby improving public safety and the protection of natural resources.

Key Provisions

  • Peace Officer Status: The bill specifically grants park rangers in Erie County the designation of peace officers, allowing them to carry out law enforcement duties.
  • Enforcement Powers: With this status, park rangers would have the authority to:
    • Issue citations for violations of park regulations.
    • Conduct investigations related to crimes occurring within park boundaries.
    • Make arrests for offenses committed in their presence.
  • Training Requirements: The bill may include provisions for the necessary training and certification that park rangers must complete to qualify as peace officers.

Affected Parties

  • Park Rangers: The primary beneficiaries of this bill are park rangers employed by Erie County, who will gain enhanced authority and responsibilities.
  • Public and Visitors: The bill is expected to positively impact the safety of park visitors and the preservation of park resources by allowing for more effective law enforcement.
  • Local Law Enforcement: The bill may also affect local law enforcement agencies by potentially reducing their workload related to park-related incidents.

Legislative Timeline

  • April 01, 2025: Bill introduced and referred to the Codes Committee.
  • June 09, 2025: Reported and referred to Rules.
  • June 10, 2025:
    • Reported again and placed on the Rules Calendar (Cal. 580).
    • Ordered to third reading and passed in the Assembly.
    • Delivered to the Senate and referred to Rules.

Related Bills

  • A 10812: A prior-session bill related to law enforcement authority.
  • A 3786: A prior-session bill concerning park management.
  • A 3515: A prior-session bill addressing public safety in parks.
  • S 8336: A companion bill in the Senate that aligns with the objectives of A 7529.

Conclusion

Bill A 7529 represents a significant step toward empowering park rangers in Erie County with the necessary authority to enforce laws and regulations effectively. By granting peace officer status, the bill aims to enhance public safety and ensure the protection of natural resources within the parks. The bill is currently in the legislative process, having passed the Assembly and awaiting further action in the Senate.

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

Sign in to ask a question.