POST to study whether agencies can reuse prior background investigations for new hires

Commissioners directed POST staff to prepare a study, in consultation with chief executives’ organizations, on whether a hiring agency may accept and update a previously completed peace-officer background investigation in lieu of conducting a new full investigation.

Melanie Singley of POST’s Office of Strategic Communication and Research presented the item and explained that regulation 1953 allows only narrow exceptions — most commonly for officers returning to the same agency — and a limited exception for interim chiefs. Foster City Police Chief Tracy Avelar and California Police Chiefs Association (Cal Chiefs) advocacy prompted the request.

Several commissioners and chiefs said the proposal could help small agencies save money when a candidate has recently completed a lengthy background elsewhere. Commissioner Nieto said she supports exploring the change. Commissioner Braun moved that POST “move forward with the study,” calling it “an option” that should remain voluntary for hiring authorities; commissioners asked staff to consult Cal Chiefs, Cal Sheriffs and the advisory committee.

Why it matters: Background investigations are a significant upfront cost for hiring agencies. Any change to allow reuse or updating of prior files could shorten hiring timelines and reduce duplicate effort, but commissioners also stressed the need for safeguards tied to timeliness, scope and review so agencies retain control over standards.

What staff will do next: POST staff will draft a study describing options and guardrails (time-frame limits, required updates and review steps), consult stakeholder associations, and attempt to return with recommendations for the March 2025 meeting.