The bill amends the Arkansas Code regarding the civil service system, specifically focusing on the rules and regulations for examinations and eligibility lists for fire and police departments. It establishes that examinations shall be held as needed, determined by the chief of the respective department, rather than on fixed dates. The commission's role in the examination process is limited, allowing them to observe but not interfere or engage in interviews or proctoring. Additionally, the bill modifies the notification process for creating an eligibility list, changing the responsible party from the board to the commission.

Furthermore, the bill revises the probationary periods for appointees in fire and law enforcement departments. It sets a maximum probation period of eighteen months for fire department appointees and establishes a range of one to two years for law enforcement appointees, with a specific increase in the time required before promotions from six to twelve months. These changes aim to streamline the examination and appointment processes while clarifying the roles of the involved parties.

Statutes affected:
Old version SB374 V2 - 4-3-2025 10:50 AM: 14-51-301(b)
Old version SB374 Original - 3-4-2025 01:51 PM: 14-51-301(b)
SB 374: 14-51-301(b)
Act 751: 14-51-301(b)