Bill > H2340

This bill proposes to amend existing law regarding disciplinary actions for uniformed state police officers who have served for at least one year and face charges. Instead of solely being tried by a board appointed by the colonel, an officer can request to be tried by a board that includes the colonel. Importantly, any officer unhappy with the finding of this trial board can, within sixty days, petition either the Civil Service Commission or the American Arbitration Association (AAA) for a review. The AAA is a well-known organization that provides services for resolving disputes outside of court. This review, conducted by the commission or an arbitrator chosen through AAA procedures, will re-examine the case from the beginning (de novo) to determine if the original finding and punishment were justified. If the review upholds the original decision, it stands; otherwise, the officer will be reinstated with full compensation and benefits, and this decision will be final. The bill also clarifies that officers dismissed after a trial board hearing or those who resign while charges are pending cannot be reinstated by the colonel.