Title
Amend Ordinance S-51198 for the NICS Act Record Improvement Program (Ordinance S-53294) - Citywide
Description
Request City Council amend Ordinance S-51198 to extend the grant agreement to September 30, 2028. Additionally, request City Council grant an exception pursuant to Phoenix City Code 42-20 to authorize inclusion of indemnification and assumption of liability provisions that otherwise would be prohibited by Phoenix City Code 42-18.
Report
Summary
On August 26, 2024, the Phoenix City Council approved Ordinance S-51198 to apply for, and if awarded, accept grant funds from the Arizona Criminal Justice Commission to enhance the completeness, automation, and transmittal of records to state and federal systems used by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS). Researching and completing final disposition information is essential to maintaining criminal history records that are accurate, fair, complete, and legally comprehensive. Complete records support fair background checks, and help prevent errors in sentencing, licensing, and investigative decisions. It protects an individual's rights, supports legal integrity, and promotes public trust. This work is also required under both federal and state law. Funding provided under this grant pays for salaries and training of temporary personnel hired to reduce the backlog of unreported final dispositions. An extension is needed to complete program objectives and expend all awarded grant funds. Due to significant hiring delays and the length of the required training program for new personnel, project progress has been slower than anticipated.
Contract Term
This amendment will extend the contract period end date to September 30, 2028.
Financial Impact
No matching funds required.
Concurrence/Previous Council Action
- Ordinance S-51198 was previously approved at the August 26, 2024, City Council Meeting.
Department
Responsible Department
This item is submitted by Assistant City Manager Lori Bays and the Police Department.