FL S1818

Authorizes the Criminal Justice Standards and Training Commission to incorporate instruction on use of force, deescalation techniques, and suicide awareness and prevention into the initial certification curriculum for law enforcement officers.

Defines "deescalation techniques" to include nonlethal methods, verbal and physical tactics emphasizing communication and negotiation, use of lowest necessary force level, mental health awareness training, distance and cover principles, and crisis intervention strategies.

Defines "suicide awareness and prevention techniques" as methods for recognizing individuals in crisis and training in recognizing post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms.

Authorizes the commission by rule to allow officers to receive instruction on use of force, deescalation techniques, and suicide awareness and prevention as part of the 40 hours of required annual instruction for continued employment or appointment.

Takes effect July 1, 2022.