Pennsylvania State Capitol. Photo: Shutterstock

The state House of Representatives on June 24 passed on unanimous votes two bills focused on police training and discipline.

House Bill 1841 would create a database gathering police disciplinary action.

The bill, sponsored by state Rep. Harry Readshaw, D-Allegheny, would "require an employer to disclose employment information to a law enforcement agency that is conducting a background investigation of an applicant, and to permit a court to compel the release of such employment information if the employer fails to comply," according to a letter seeking co-sponsors.

House Bill 1910 was aimed at improving police officer hiring and training.

The bill, sponsored by state Rep. Dan K. Williams, D-Chester, would require mental health evaluation for police officer recruits, and "instruction in interacting with individuals of diverse racial, ethnic and economic backgrounds."

HB 1841 and HB 1910 both go to the Pennsylvania Senate for consideration.

Meanwhile, a criminal justice bill that would address onerous aspects of Pennsylvania's probation system was unanimously approved by the Senate Judiciary Committee.

Senate Bill 14 would curtail probation terms and provide opportunities to reduce terms of court supervision through work or education.

SB 14, whose main sponsor is Sen. Anthony Williams, D-Philadelphia, now goes to the full Senate for consideration.