The proposed bill would amend current statutes regarding the termination of law enforcement officers and police recruits. Under the new provisions, an employer would be prohibited from terminating a law enforcement officer who has been promoted above their current rank and placed on probationary status solely for failing to satisfactorily complete the probationary period; however, the employer would retain the ability to demote the officer. Additionally, the bill clarifies that an employer may terminate a law enforcement officer at any time with just cause. It also specifies that the new rules do not apply to police recruits who are promoted to law enforcement officers after graduating from the police academy, allowing for their termination if they do not complete the initial probationary period satisfactorily.

Furthermore, the bill introduces new language that allows for the termination of law enforcement officers who are laterally transferred and fail to complete their probationary period. The amendments also include technical and conforming changes to ensure consistency throughout the statute. Overall, the bill aims to provide clearer guidelines on the employment status of law enforcement personnel during their probationary periods while maintaining the employer's authority to take necessary actions based on performance.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 38-1104
Senate Engrossed Version: 38-1104
House Engrossed Version: 38-1104