SB49 Summary

• Requires all law enforcement agencies in Alabama to mandate periodic mental health assessments for officers as a condition of continued employment, effective January 1, 2023.

• Officers must submit to assessments at least once every five years, conducted by a board-certified psychiatrist or licensed psychologist with experience treating post-traumatic stress disorder.

• Allows law enforcement agencies to stagger assessments so all officers receive evaluations across a five-year schedule, and permits administrative heads to require additional assessments for good cause with written justification.

• Exempts officers who have submitted written notice of retirement within six months of their scheduled assessment date.

• Requires new hires with prior law enforcement experience to undergo assessment within six months of employment, with consideration given to when they last completed an evaluation.