January 26, 2023

Anderson Supports State Police Contract, Additional Measures Aiding Law Enforcement

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Hartford – The House of Representatives convened on Wednesday to act on an updated bargaining agreement with the state police force. State Rep. Mark Anderson (R-Granby) voted in support of the contract, which was approved by a final vote tally of 142 – 1.

“The contract approved during today’s session is a step in the right direction towards rebuilding the ranks within the Connecticut State Police. Recruitment and retention have been historically low, should they decline further it will be difficult for the force to maintain its excellent service to our state and local communities,” said Anderson.

The contract increases state trooper salaries and available resources for work-related training. It will apply to the force’s 888 troopers.

“The legislature has passed partisan policy that has made it difficult for police to do their jobs. The impact of this has trickled down and has decreased department morale. While this contract won’t address all the issues plaguing Connecticut’s cops, it will help our current and prospective troopers,” said Anderson.

In addition to the support of the state police contract, Anderson has co-sponsored House Bill 5361 – An Act Concerning Appeals Regarding Governmental Immunity of Police Officers, Searches of Motor Vehicles, Purchase of Surplus Military Equipment, Use of Force by Police Office and Pursuit of Suspect Policies. Specifically, the bill:

Protects law enforcement and municipalities from being forced to settle in qualified immunity cases because any denial under current law bars them from appealing that decision until after jury decision.
Evaluates the use of force from the perspective of a reasonable officer in the same situation, based on the totality of the circumstances known to or perceived by the officer at the time, rather than with the benefit of hindsight, and that the totality of the circumstances shall account for occasions when officers may be forced to make quick judgments about the use of force.
Restores the ability for police to request consent searches during motor vehicle stops when there is reasonable suspicion of a crime.
Requires P.O.S.T. to rewrite the police pursuit policy to allow pursuit of property crime offenses.

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