AL HB261

Authorizes presidents or chief executive officers of state colleges, universities, and specified private institutions to appoint reserve police officers to assist duly certified law enforcement officers.

Prohibits reserve police officers from exercising any law enforcement authority or power of arrest until certified through the Alabama Peace Officers' Standards and Training Commission, with certification required within one year of appointment.

Requires reserve police officer applicants to be at least 19 years old, of good moral character, with no felony or violent misdemeanor convictions, not prohibited from firearm ownership, and to consent to fingerprint and background investigation.

Permits reserve police officers to carry firearms only with a valid permit, proper training and qualification, and appointing authority approval, subject to institutional rules.

Becomes effective on the first day of the third month following passage and gubernatorial approval.