Should we require law enforcement officers to undergo training on and employ de-escalation techniques?
HR 2927 requires that states and localities receiving grants under the Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Program require law enforcement officers to undergo training on and employ de-escalation techniques. This bill aims to help reduce the need for use of force by law enforcement officers. All law enforcement officers of state or local government would be required to fulfill a training session each fiscal year, including verbal and physical tactics to minimize the need for force, techniques that provide officers with awareness and recognition of mental health, crisis intervention strategies, and other evidence-based approaches. Sponsor: Rep. Gwen Moore (Democrat, Wisconsin, District 4)
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Opponents say
Proponents say
• “I think that the response from a statewide perspective is one of accountability and there should be standards,” said Lt. Gov. Barnes. “The legislature should meet to pass bills aimed at creating better police-community relationships. And it requires legislators to take it seriously.” Source: Lieutenant Governor Mandela Barnes (Democrat, Wisconsin)
• “There are currently only 21 states that require its law enforcement officers to undergo mandatory de-escalation training. Police departments across the country have demonstrated that, when used, de-escalation techniques make neighborhoods safer, reduce civilian complaints, and keep officers safe. Leaving resource-strapped chiefs and sheriffs on their own to implement these programs simply is not fair to them or the communities they serve. We can do better by requiring and funding these programs in the federal government. The Preventing Tragedies Between Police and Communities Act (H.R. 2927), introduced by Rep. Gwen Moore (D-Wis.-4), conditions grants under the Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant Program to states and localities implementing mandatory de-escalation training for their officers. The bill also requires departments to regularly submit use of force data to DOJ.” Source: Third Way