(1) Regulations governing certification of public safety officers requires that a code of ethics shall be administered as an oath.

(2) The procedure for administration of the code of ethics is as follows:

(a) each applicant for certification will attest to this code of ethics and the oath shall be administered by the head of the public safety agency for which they serve, or by the Montana Law Enforcement Academy (academy) administrator or designee;

(b) the applicant and the administrator administering the oath will sign two copies of the public safety code of ethics; and

(c) one copy will be retained by the applicant and the other copy will be retained in the applicant's academy student file, which will be available for inspection by the council staff at any reasonable time.

(3) The oath of the public safety officers' code of ethics is:

"My fundamental responsibility as a public safety officer is to serve the community, safeguard lives and property, protect the innocent, keep the peace, and ensure the constitutional rights of all are not abridged.

"I shall perform all duties impartially, without favor or ill will and without regard to status, sex, race, religion, creed, political belief or aspiration. I will treat all citizens equally and with courtesy, consideration, and dignity. I will never allow personal feelings, animosities, or friendships to influence my official conduct.

"I will enforce or apply all laws and regulations appropriately, courteously, and responsibly.

"I will never employ unnecessary force or violence, and will use only such force in the discharge of my duties as is objectively reasonable in all circumstances. I will refrain from applying unnecessary infliction of pain or suffering and will never engage in cruel, degrading, or inhuman treatment of any person.

"Whatever I see, hear, or learn, which is of a confidential nature, I will keep in confidence unless the performance of duty or legal provision requires otherwise.

"I will not engage in nor will I condone any acts of corruption, bribery, or criminal activity; and shall disclose to the appropriate authorities all such acts. I will refuse to accept any gifts, favors, gratuities, or promises that could be interpreted as favor or cause me to refrain from performing my official duties.

"I will strive to work in unison with all legally authorized agencies and their representatives in the pursuit of justice.

"I will be responsible for my professional development and will take reasonable opportunities to improve my level of knowledge and competence.

"I will at all times ensure that my character and conduct is admirable and will not bring discredit to my community, my agency, or my chosen profession."