LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICER RECRUITMENT; STUDY                                         S.B. 483:

                                                                                 SUMMARY OF INTRODUCED BILL

                                                                                                         IN COMMITTEE

Senate Bill 483 (as introduced 5-25-21)

Sponsor:  Senator Michael D. MacDonald

Committee:  Judiciary and Public Safety

Date Completed:  5-26-21

CONTENT

The bill would amend the Michigan Commission on Law Enforcement Standards Act to require the Michigan Commission on Law Enforcement Standards (MCOLES) to conduct or contract for a research study and analysis to identify barriers in the recruitment of law enforcement officers in order to develop a strategy for attracting and retaining high-quality individuals to serve as law enforcement officers.

Specifically, under the bill, by March 1, 2022, and subject to appropriation, MCOLES would have to conduct or contract for a research study and analysis to identify barriers in the recruitment of law enforcement officers in order to develop a strategy for attracting and retaining high-quality individuals to serve as law enforcement officers. A research study and analysis conducted pursuant to the bill would have to include all of the following:

-- Public perception of law enforcement agencies and law enforcement officers.

-- Significant job stressors for law enforcement officers.

-- Factors that affect job performance, including gender, race, or other pertinent factors.

-- The character, personality, or other traits that contribute to a successful law enforcement career as observed in current and retired law enforcement officers.

Proposed MCL 28.611a                                            Legislative Analyst:  Stephen Jackson

FISCAL IMPACT

The bill would have an indeterminate fiscal impact on MCOLES. While the bill would allow MCOLES to perform the research itself, because of staff time limitations, a study of this type likely would be contracted out to an entity with the expertise in conducting this research. Depending on the thoroughness required of the study, it is realistic to assume that this service could cost in a range of $25,000 on the low end to upwards of $100,000 (or more). 

                                                                                       Fiscal Analyst:  Bruce Baker

This analysis was prepared by nonpartisan Senate staff for use by the Senate in its deliberations and does not constitute an official statement of legislative intent.