NC H436

Requires psychological screening examinations conducted by licensed psychologists for all law enforcement officers prior to initial certification or employment, with face-to-face interviews or virtual evaluations if in-person meetings are not practicable.

Mandates entry-level training on mental health and wellness strategies for criminal justice officers and sheriffs' deputies as a qualification standard for employment.

Requires two hours of in-service mental health and wellness training for all certified law enforcement officers every three years.

Directs law enforcement training commissions to regularly provide information on statewide mental health resources available to officers and requires agencies to coordinate with local health organizations to make mental health resources easily accessible to employees.

Establishes a joint study to be completed by March 31, 2022 on the benefits of requiring physical fitness testing throughout law enforcement careers and whether testing should be adjusted based on officer age.