Bill addresses incapacitated officers

The Judiciary Committee heard testimony Feb. 22 on a bill that would change the revocation and suspension provisions for law enforcement training certificates and diplomas.

LB538, introduced by Omaha Sen. Ernie Chambers, would temporarily suspend the certificate or diploma of a law enforcement officer deemed to have physical, mental or emotional incapacities. If such disabilities are deemed permanent, their certificate or diploma would be revoked.

The provisions of the bill would apply retroactively to law enforcement.

Law enforcement certificates and diplomas are evidence that officers are qualified and are capable of performing their duties, Chambers said, so if they are deemed incapacitated they should not be allowed to continue working as police officers.

No testimony was given and the committee took no immediate action on the bill.