A recurring — and deeply troubling — open government problem that is one step closer to a solution.

"New changes to Kentucky laws will prevent officers who violate their oath from serving in law enforcement again.

"Previously, officers mainly had to be convicted of a felony in order to lose their state-issued Peace Officer Professional Standards (POPS) certification, which is required to have a sworn law enforcement position. Senate Bill 80 has already been put to work, lowering that standard and allowing the Kentucky Law Enforcement Council the flexibility to decertify an officer for other things, such as a misdemeanor.

"It's something that WAVE 3 News has reported was happening repeatedly, with LMPD officers quitting before an internal investigation was done, keeping their certification, and then getting a job somewhere else.

"Agencies across Kentucky are also now required to report the names of officers who quit, retire, or are fired during any type of investigation to the KLEC. The KLEC reviews those files and makes a call if they believe that officer shouldn't represent the profession.

"'Senate bill 80 is a positive step in the right direction,' Yates, a co-sponsor for the legislation, said. 'It's not a home run. It's just one more step.'"