CAL.Regulation
California lets up to three tribes' officers serve as state peace officers under DOJ oversight
California enacted AB 31 (Ramos), creating a Tribal Police Program under the Department of Justice and the Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training. Up to three federally recognized tribes may enroll; officers who complete state peace-officer training are deemed peace officers. Participating tribes must enact tribal laws mirroring state public-records and claims rules, waive sovereign immunity for program suits, and accept Attorney General oversight. Governor Newsom signed the bill on September 25, 2026; it takes effect January 1, 2027.
Enrolled text (California Legislative Information) → · Governor of California
Key points
- Up to three federally recognized tribes may enroll; the Justice Department selects them considering size, region, and public-safety resources.California Legislative Information
- The program is established to operate commencing July 1, 2026, under Justice Department and POST direction.California Legislative Information
- Officers deemed peace officers must complete all state peace-officer appointment, training, and certification requirements, including Penal Code sections 832 and 832.55.California Legislative Information
- Enrolled tribes must waive sovereign immunity for suits over program acts and accept California or federal law in state or federal courts.California Legislative Information
- The Justice Department must file interim and final reports by July 1, 2028, and January 1, 2030, on clearance rates, crime, and recruitment.California Legislative Information
- Charges from tribal-officer arrests and citations fall within state court jurisdiction; citations go to the county superior court.California Legislative Information
Sources2 articles across 2 outlets
California Legislative Information
Governor of California