Bill > SB1600

This bill modifies how records related to investigations by the Legislative Equity Officer, who handles complaints about legislative branch personnel rules, are handled. Specifically, it changes what information can be made public during and after these investigations. The bill removes the role of an "offsite process counselor," which was an external individual involved in the investigation process. It also clarifies that final investigative reports concerning a member of the Legislative Assembly will be public once delivered to the relevant conduct committee, while reports about other individuals will be public if disciplinary action is determined. Additionally, any agreements resolving an investigation involving a legislator will be public, though identifying information about non-legislators can be removed. The bill also makes changes to when certain communications are not protected by privilege, particularly if they indicate a clear intent to commit a serious crime involving physical injury, threats, sexual abuse, or death, and it repeals certain existing statutes related to legislative equity and privilege. Finally, the bill declares an emergency, meaning it takes effect immediately upon being signed into law.