This bill establishes the Office of State Police Affairs (OSPA) as an independent entity within the Department of Treasury, tasked with overseeing the conduct of law enforcement officers employed by the Division of State Police. The director of OSPA, appointed by the Governor with Senate approval, will have a five-year term and will operate without supervision from other state departments. The director is granted significant authority, including the power to supervise the Superintendent of State Police, investigate allegations of misconduct, and compel testimony through subpoenas. The bill also mandates that law enforcement officers under investigation cannot use privilege or work-product protection to withhold information from the director.
Additionally, OSPA is responsible for reviewing internal affairs investigations and equal employment opportunity complaints within the Division of State Police to ensure compliance with standard operating procedures and appropriate disciplinary actions. The director will oversee the appointment, promotion, and removal of law enforcement officers, conduct exit interviews, and prepare annual reports with recommendations for recruitment and hiring practices. The bill allows OSPA to decline certain investigations based on specific criteria and requires the director to maintain detailed records of complaints and their outcomes. All criminal complaints against law enforcement officers will be managed and prosecuted by OSPA, with the director required to collaborate with other state oversight entities to enhance accountability and transparency.