CEDAR GROVE, N.J. (1010 WINS) -- Gov. Phil Murphy proposed New Jersey require a law enforcement license that must be renewed every three years and could be revoked for misconduct.
At a press conference on Wednesday at the Essex County Police Academy, Murphy proposed legislation that would establish the licensing program under the New Jersey Police Training Commission.
“This license and all it will represent will lift up the overwhelming majority of women and men working honestly and diligently to keep our communities safe,” said Murphy at the press conference. “It will send a strong message. that our cops and correction officers are living up to their oaths, both in word and in deed.”
The commission would have the power to revoke licenses for misconduct.
Acquiring a license would require a psychological exam and up-to-date training.
By requiring a license, officers who are found guilty of misconduct wouldn’t be able to simply move to another department after getting fired.
The hypothetical legislation would also seek to standardize regulations for police officers across New Jersey’s more than 500 police departments, Murphy said.
“These licenses should be held with honor as they show that these officers have been through rigorous training and have upheld what it means to be a law enforcement officer to the highest professional standards,” said Murphy.
The governor speculated licensure could also serve to rebuild trust with communities that have lost faith in law enforcement’s ability to behave appropriately.
He compared the hypothetical licenses to other professionals who require state licensure like doctors, lawyers and teachers.
More than 40 other states require licensure for police.
Pat Colligan, the head of New Jersey’s police union, endorsed the proposal.
“This is a bill that codifies what was basically in effect,” said Colligan. “This really is nothing to be feared. It will be a good thing for law enforcement.”
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