The 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 prohibits law enforcement officers under investigation from using 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 conduct exit interviews with departing officers, prepare annual reports with recommendations for recruitment and promotions, and maintain records of investigations while safeguarding confidentiality. The bill allows OSPA to collaborate with other state oversight entities and mandates that all criminal complaints against law enforcement officers be managed and prosecuted by OSPA, with the director's appointed attorneys having the same powers as county prosecutors.