Alaska2026Passed Legislature

SB53

Alaska SB 53: New Rules for Police Agency Accreditation

Last scannedSep 8, 2026, 12:47 AM

In one sentence

This bill limits lawsuits against the state and cities regarding police accreditation standards and gives a council new powers to set training rules, including lessons on disabilities.

Stops people from suing the state or municipalities if they are unhappy with how law enforcement agencies follow or fail to meet specific accreditation standards.
Gives the Alaska Peace Officer Standards and Training Council power to create minimum rules for accrediting police departments in the state.
Requires that training programs include lessons on recognizing disabilities, interacting with disabled persons, available resources, and federal disability laws.
Allows the council to charge a $50 fee when processing applications to certify officers.
Lets the council investigate officers who may not meet employment standards and require criminal history checks.

Law enforcement agencies in Alaska that must follow new accreditation rules.
Police, probation, parole, and correctional officers seeking certification or training.
The state government and municipalities regarding their protection from lawsuits about accreditation decisions.
People with disabilities who interact with law enforcement.

The text does not say when these new rules will officially start working.
The bill mentions specific law sections but does not list the exact details of what those accreditation standards must be yet.
It is unclear how much time agencies have to meet the new training requirements.

Plain language

Accreditation: A process where an agency proves it meets specific standards set by a governing body to operate legally or professionally.
Council: The Alaska Peace Officer Standards and Training Council, the group given new powers in this bill.

Official record

Validated

LAW ENFORCEMENT AGENCY ACCREDITATION An Act relating to accreditation standards for law enforcement agencies.

Official activity