AN ACT CONCERNING FUNDING FOR DRUG RECOGNITION EXPERT TRAINING FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS.

HB 5206 provides funding from the General Fund for fiscal year 2026 to train law enforcement officers in drug recognition expertise. The program, administered by the Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection, directly affects local and state officers who will use this training to identify drivers impaired by cannabis or other substances (not just alcohol) during traffic stops. This bill allocates specific resources for a defined training initiative to enhance officer capabilities in detecting drug-impaired driving, without changing existing legal standards or penalties.