CA AB852

Requires peace officers hired on or after January 1, 2029, to attain a modern policing degree from a California Community College or a bachelor's/advanced degree from an accredited college or university within 36 months of employment.

Exempts any person already enrolled in a basic academy or employed as a peace officer by a public entity in California as of December 31, 2028, from the degree requirement.

Applies to all peace officers described in Penal Code Sections 830.1, 830.2, 830.3, 830.32, and 830.33, or employed by agencies participating in the Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) program.

Takes effect immediately as an urgency statute necessary for the preservation of public peace, health, or safety.