SB 1351 Summary

• Amends Penal Code Section 830.55 to expand the definition of peace officers to include correctional officers employed by cities, counties, or city and counties that operate facilities housing inmates sentenced to county correctional facilities.

• Requires these correctional officers to have authority and responsibility for maintaining custody of inmates and perform tasks related to facility operations to qualify as peace officers.

• Establishes that correctional officers cannot carry or possess firearms except under superintendent direction while transporting prisoners, guarding hospitalized prisoners, or suppressing riots, escapes, or rescues.

• Requires all correctional officers to complete training within 90 days of assignment and meet minimum standards set by the Board of State and Community Corrections within one year.

• Takes effect immediately as an urgency statute upon governor approval on July 9, 2012.