H 4697
An Act relative to the training, certification, and recognition of constables and civil deputy sheriffs
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- Passed House
- Passed Senate
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Bill overview
This bill aims to establish standards for training, certification, and recognition for constables and civil deputy sheriffs in Massachusetts. Currently, the qualifications and training requirements for these roles can vary. The legislation seeks to create a more consistent and professional framework for these officials, ensuring they possess the necessary skills and knowledge to perform their duties effectively. It intends to improve public safety and accountability within the constabulary system.
Key provisions
- Establishes minimum training requirements for constables and civil deputy sheriffs.
- Creates a certification process for these officials.
- Defines standards for recognition and qualifications.
- Addresses issues related to the scope of authority and responsibilities.
- Requires the Massachusetts State Police to develop and administer the certification program.
- Mandates ongoing training to maintain certification.
- Specifies procedures for disciplinary action against certified officials.
Who is affected
- Constables
- Civil Deputy Sheriffs
- Massachusetts State Police
- Local Law Enforcement Agencies
- The Public
Notable changes
- The bill introduces a formal certification process, which currently may not exist in all Massachusetts counties.
- It establishes standardized training requirements, potentially addressing inconsistencies in current practices.
Sponsors
Official sponsors from legislative records.
Primary sponsor
Jeffrey Rosario Turco
Cosponsors
James C. Arena-DeRosa
Jeffrey Rosario Turco
Marcus S. Vaughn
Patrick M. O'Connor
Arguments in favor
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Bill H.4697 194th (Current)
An Act relative to the training, certification, and recognition of constables and civil deputy sheriffs
By Representative Turco of Winthrop, a petition (subject to Joint Rule 12) of Jeffrey Rosario Turco relative to the training, certification, and recognition of constables and civil deputy sheriffs. Public Safety and Homeland Security.
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Bill Information
Bill Information
Presenter: Jeffrey Rosario Turco Status: Referred to Joint Committee on Public Safety and Homeland Security
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Bill History Petitioners Committee Summary Hearing Attendance
Bill History
Displaying 5 actions for Bill H.4697
| Date | Branch | Action |
| 10/27/2025 | House | Referred to the committee on House Rules |
| 10/30/2025 | House | Reported, referred to the committee on Joint Rules, reported, rules suspended and referred to the committee on Public Safety and Homeland Security |
| 11/3/2025 | Senate | Senate concurred |
| 3/6/2026 | Joint | Hearing scheduled for 03/18/2026 from 09:00 AM-12:00 PM in A-2 |
| 3/18/2026 | Joint | Hearing rescheduled to 03/18/2026 from 09:00 AM-12:45 PM in A-2 Hearing updated to New End Time |
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An Act relative to the training, certification, and recognition of constables and civil deputy sheriffs
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