Allows Training Agencies Access to Criminal Records

Criminal History Access Act of 2026This bill authorizes a new type of entity—peace officer standards and training agencies—to access criminal history record information maintained by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The term peace officer standards and training agency means an agency of a state, the District of Columbia, or a U.S. territory that is authorized to set standards for the hiring, training, ethical conduct, and retention of its law enforcement officers through certification, licensing, or other similar qualification processes.

1. This bill enables state peace officer standards and training agencies to review criminal history records. 2. The Attorney General must update regulations within 180 days to implement this change. 3. This access aims to improve the hiring and training processes for law enforcement officers. 4. The bill defines peace officer standards and training agencies and clarifies their roles. 5. It includes various jurisdictions, such as states, cities, and Indian tribes, in the access provisions.

This bill affects state and local law enforcement agencies and their training organizations.