H2670 — An Act establishing a peace officer oath

Summary

An Act establishing a peace officer oath

Bill Text

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This bill adds a new section in Chapter 6E of the Massachusetts General Laws to require peace officers to take an ethical oath, thereby establishing new standards for ethical conduct in law enforcement.

• Chapter 6E

  Section 13A: Ethical Oath for Peace Officers (a) In alignment with the mission of the Massachusetts Peace Officer Standards and Training Commission established in Section 2 of Chapter 6E. Public confidence and improved policing standards shall be enhanced by requiring an ethical oath for peace officers including the head of an agency, a special state police officer appointed pursuant to sections 58 and 63 of Chapter 22C and special sheriff's deputy sheriffs appointed pursuant to sections 3 and 4 of chapter 37, constables executing an arrest for any reason, or any other special, reserve, or intermittent peace officer. (b) Peace officers certified under this chapter shall swear or affirm an ethical oath inspired by principles of beneficence, non-maleficence, and accountability to the public they serve. This oath shall be administered upon certification and recertification, reinforcing a commitment to public service, ethical conduct, and adherence to constitutional principles. (c) The ethical oath shall include the following pledges: (i) To prioritize the protection and well-being of all individuals in the community, upholding the principle of “first, do no harm”; (ii) To employ de-escalation techniques and use force only when absolutely necessary, ensuring proportionality and respect for human life; (iii) To uphold and protect civil liberties and constitutional rights without discrimination based on race, ethnicity, religion, gender, or socioeconomic status; (iv) To provide or call for emergency medical services for any person with whom they are in contact or have under their custody or control, who they have participated in the causation of or who is experiencing an emergent medical condition; (iv) To serve with integrity, transparency, and accountability, acknowledging the public trust placed in peace officers; (v) To maintain professional competence through ongoing education and training, with a focus on ethical decision-making and community engagement; and (vi) To actively report and address misconduct within the profession, fostering a culture of accountability and trust. (d) The Massachusetts Peace Officer Standards and Training Commission is directed to develop the specific language of the oath and ensure its consistent administration. The Commission shall consult with community stakeholders, legal experts, and law enforcement professionals to create a text that reflects the highest standards of ethical conduct and public service. (e) The ethical oath shall be included as a mandatory component of officer training programs, professional evaluations, and certification processes. Noncompliance with the oath shall be grounds for review and potential disciplinary action by the Massachusetts Peace Officer Standards and Training Commission. (f) The Massachusetts Peace Officer Standards and Training Commission in connection with the Executive Office of Public Safety shall report annually to the Governor and the Legislature on the implementation and effectiveness of the ethical oath in promoting professional standards and public trust in law enforcement.

  This establishes a new requirement for peace officers to take an ethical oath, outlining specific pledges aimed at enhancing public trust and accountability.

Sponsors

• Samantha Montaño · Primary

Subjects