SPRINGFIELD – A more comprehensive review of prospective law enforcement officers prior to hiring will be required under a new law supported by State Senator Napoleon Harris III.

“Ensuring the integrity and accountability of our law enforcement officers starts with the vetting process,” said Harris (D-Harvey). “This law strengthens the vetting process so that only the most qualified and trustworthy individuals serve our communities.”

Senate Bill 1953 requires law enforcement agencies to conduct a more comprehensive review of a prospective officer’s past employment to ensure his or her fitness for duty as a police officer before making an offer of employment.

To ensure the highest degree of integrity and professionalism in the hiring process of sheriff’s deputies and other personnel, the Harris supported law expands the creation of sheriff’s merit boards sheriff’s merit commissions for counties with a population of at least 75,000.

Senate Bill 1953 was signed into law last week and takes effect Jan. 1, 2026.