HB 23-1143 Summary

• Creates new statute 24-31-320 allowing the P.O.S.T. Board to promulgate rules for eligible immigrants seeking peace officer certificates and defines "eligible immigrant" as persons with valid Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) status or those who have applied for asylum.

• Authorizes law enforcement agencies to amend or create written firearms policies permitting eligible immigrants to possess and carry firearms in compliance with federal law and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives regulations.

• Permits eligible immigrants employed by law enforcement agencies to enroll in training academies and transport, store, clean, and maintain firearms outside instructional hours if the agency's written policy authorizes such possession.

• Requires law enforcement agencies to notify the P.O.S.T. Board that eligible immigrant officers are compliant with the agency's firearms policy while attending training academy.

• Takes effect 12:01 a.m. on the day following the 90-day period after final adjournment of the general assembly, or if a referendum petition is filed, upon approval by voters at the November 2024 general election.