Substitute House Bill No. 5456 proposes to amend the current law regarding the appointment of deputy commissioners within the Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection (DESPP). Specifically, the bill increases the maximum number of deputy commissioners that the DESPP commissioner can appoint from two to three. This change is intended to enhance the administration of the department, which is responsible for emergency management and homeland security in the state. The bill also stipulates that one of the deputy commissioners must have the powers and privileges of a state police officer and will head the Division of State Police, while another will lead the Division of Emergency Management and Homeland Security.

The bill is set to take effect on October 1, 2026, and is expected to incur additional costs for the state, estimated at approximately $212,730 in the first fiscal year and $283,640 in the following year. These costs are associated with the salary and fringe benefits for the newly authorized third deputy commissioner. The fiscal impact reflects the ongoing expenses that will continue into the future, subject to inflation.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 29-1b