A Rhode Island senator, along with law enforcement groups, is pushing for the passage of his proposed commander-level police training legislation.

U.S. Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse's Promoting Police Leadership Act is designed to support the development of commander-level law enforcement leadership training and education in order to increase officer accountability and wellness, improve resource management and strengthen community relations, according to a news release from the lawmaker. The bipartisan bill is awaiting a House vote after it was unanimously passed in the Senate in June.

"Rhode Island’s captains, majors, and precinct commanders know that proper training for their officers is key to making decisions that keep our communities safe," Whitehouse said in a statement. "They, too, deserve training programs that keep pace with the new demands constantly placed on them."

Under the bill, the U.S. Attorney General and Justice Department would create a broad training framework for commander-level law enforcement officers in conjuction with state, local and tribal agencies, as well as other stakeholders. A voluntary certification process would be established to identify high-quality training programs.  

The legislation is endorsed by Law Enforcement Action Partnership, Major County Sheriffs of America, and National Narcotic Officers’ Associations’ Coalition.

"Strong police departments depend on strong leaders, and this legislation will help ensure that the next generation of law enforcement leaders has the training and preparation needed to meet the challenges ahead," Col. Michael Correia, Barrington police chief and president of the Rhode Island Police Chiefs Association.