Ohio House Passes Bipartisan Legislation to Update Police Chief Training Requirements

COLUMBUS—The Ohio House of Representatives yesterday passed House Bill 167, bipartisan legislation that will modify police chief training requirements in Ohio, announced bill sponsor, State Rep. Cindy Abrams (R-Harrison).

Under Ohio law, new police chiefs are required to take a new chief of police training course. Rather than solely being offered in Columbus, this legislation will permit localized new chief trainings at approved regional training facilities throughout the state.

“One of the biggest ways we can support our law enforcement is through quality training,” said Abrams. “Our police supervisors are at their best when they are the most prepared. I am thankful this critical legislation moved swiftly through the Ohio House.”

The bill will also allow the Ohio Peace Officer Training Commission to establish and have more control over advanced training for officers at or above the rank of sergeant.

House Bill 167 awaits further consideration from the Ohio Senate.