A new California law that took effect this month raises the minimum age for local law enforcement from 18 to 21.

The Peace Officers Education and Age Conditions for Employment (PEACE) Act also requires the community college system to work with stakeholders to create a “modern policing” degree program by 2025. It would provide financial assistance for those from disadvantaged communities to pursue law enforcement degrees.

The Public Policy Institute of California (PPIC) noted that one factor driving the new law is to reduce police use of deadly force. About 195 Californians are killed each year during encounters with police. Thirty-one of those deaths occurred in the Inland Empire during 2021.

Gunshot injuries account for the vast majority (about 80%) of civilian fatalities during police interactions.

The new age requirement applies only to new hires. The change aligns with requirements in most other states and is supported by research evidence finding that officers who join the force at older ages are less likely to be involved in police shootings, the PPIC said.

Story Date: February 11, 2022