Brewster’s Police Officers’ Training Commission Legislation Clears Senate

Harrisburg – July 9, 2017 – State Sen. Jim Brewster (D-Allegheny/Westmoreland) said today that the legislation he offered to change the composition of the Municipal Police Officers’ Education and Training Commission is long overdue and is a common-sense change that will improve the operation of the commission.

The measure, Senate Bill 403, passed the Senate unanimously. 

The bill removes the membership of a special agent-in-charge from the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) with an appointee from the Pennsylvania Lodge Fraternal Order of Police (FOP).  The FBI seat on the commission has been vacant since 2007.

“The FBI seat on the commission has been vacant for many years,” Brewster said.  “The Department of Justice advised against making an appointment because they were concerned about a supervisory role as it relates to local police.”

Brewster served for many years as mayor of McKeesport.  He was heavily involved in police training and said an additional FOP member will provide additional expertise and insight. 

The legislation now awaits action in the state House of Representatives. 

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