SE Kansas News

U.S. Senators Jerry Moran and Sheldon Whitehouse have introduced new legislation aimed at improving the vetting process for hiring local law enforcement officers. The proposed bill would grant Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) offices access to the National Crime Information Center (NCIC).

"Protecting communities in Kansas and across the nation starts with hiring quality law enforcement officers," said Senator Moran. "This legislation would help states and local law enforcement agencies have greater access to criminal data to improve the vetting and hiring of potential law enforcement officers, who are tasked with keeping our communities safe and secure."

Senator Whitehouse emphasized the importance of trust between law enforcement and communities: "Maintaining trust between law enforcement and the communities they serve and protect is crucial to upholding public safety. Our legislation ensures that state POST organizations have all the information they need to fully evaluate new recruits’ suitability so disqualified individuals and known bad actors don’t slip through the cracks."

The Kansas Commission on Peace Officers’ Standards and Training expressed support for this initiative. They stated, "The Kansas Commission on Peace Officers’ Standards and Training (KSCPOST) applauds Kansas Senator Jerry Moran his exemplary leadership on crucial legislation extending criminal justice information system access to the KSCPOST and POST agencies in all states." They believe this step will enhance both safety and effectiveness within their community.

Similarly, The International Association of Directors of Law Enforcement Standards and Training commended both senators for their efforts. They remarked, "The International Association of Directors of Law Enforcement Standards and Training (IADLEST) commends Senators Moran and Whitehouse for their outstanding leadership on this critical legislation."

Currently, POST offices are responsible for setting training standards but lack access to NCIC, which limits available information during recruitment processes.