Peace officers.

Assembly Member Bryan's proposal to regulate peace officers' blood alcohol levels while carrying firearms would require California law enforcement agencies to implement a zero-tolerance alcohol policy for armed officers, both on and off duty. The measure mandates that agencies establish policies prohibiting officers from carrying department-issued firearms when their blood alcohol concentration exceeds 0.00%.

The bill defines "carrying" a firearm as having direct physical control or being physically connected to the weapon, including when holstered and attached to an officer's person. This definition applies uniformly whether officers are actively performing their duties or off shift. While the legislation creates new requirements for law enforcement agencies to develop and enforce these policies, it includes provisions for state reimbursement of associated local costs if determined necessary by the Commission on State Mandates.

The measure adds these requirements as a new section to existing state law governing peace officer standards and qualifications, which currently includes provisions on moral character requirements and disqualifying factors such as felony convictions. Local agencies would need to integrate the blood alcohol restrictions into their existing firearms policies and procedures.