MI HB5281

Prohibits law enforcement agencies from employing officers who were members of hate groups, participated in hate group activities, or engaged in public expression of hate within the past 7 years since age 18, unless the officer ceased all such activities at least 7 years prior.

Requires background investigations for law enforcement officer licensure to include inquiry into membership in hate groups and participation in hate group activities or public expression of hate.

Mandates law enforcement agencies investigate complaints alleging an officer engaged in hate group membership, activities, or public expression of hate, with sustained allegations resulting in license revocation by the Michigan Commission on Law Enforcement Standards.

Defines "hate group" as organizations supporting, advocating for, threatening, or practicing genocide or hate crimes; defines "hate crime" as crimes motivated by prejudice based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, age, ethnicity, or national origin.

Exempts officers who engaged in such activities as part of legitimate undercover assignments for law enforcement duty, academic research, or journalistic research; requires investigation records be disclosed under the Freedom of Information Act with limited redactions.