Among many other things, the safety and effectiveness of our police officers depend upon how well they are trained to do this extremely difficult job. In addition to traditional law enforcement requirements, today’s police officers must know how to operate databases, investigate computer, Internet and white-collar crime, and perform DNA testing. Fighting terrorism has also been added to this list. Some police departments are now practicing a policy known as community-based policing. This approach encourages police and communities to work together in solving crime and safety problems in a way that improves the quality of life for all. By building partnerships, communities receive a voice in planning their own safety needs, while officers are empowered to identify and solve problems proactively, receiving the community’s help in fighting crime. These policies are said to be effective in reporting and preventing drug crimes as well as violent crimes that have traditionally not been reported, such as crimes against women.

Proposed Legislation: Reintroduction of H.R.7136 - Police Training and Accountability Act (116th Congress 2019-2020)
Prospective Sponsor: Rep. Mark Pocan (WI)