Police Training: Less Force, More Mental Health Support
This act introduces mandatory training for law enforcement officers and mental health professionals. The goal is to teach alternatives to using force, how to handle mental health crises, and how to work with individuals with disabilities. This aims to improve safety for citizens and officers, and provide better support for those in need.
Key points
Police officers will be trained in de-escalation techniques and alternatives to using force, potentially reducing injuries during encounters.
Training will cover responding to mental and behavioral health or suicidal crises, and interacting with individuals with disabilities, leading to more empathetic and effective responses.
Crisis intervention teams, combining law enforcement and mental health professionals, will be established to provide comprehensive support in difficult situations.
The act authorizes funding for these training programs, meaning local communities can receive support to enhance public safety and health.
Expired
Additional Information
Print number: 117_HR_8637
Sponsor: Rep. Bass, Karen [D-CA-37]
Process start date: 2022-08-02