This bill establishes the Department of State Police as a principal department within the executive branch of the State government, transferring the existing Division of State Police from the Department of Law and Public Safety. The bill amends several sections of current law, notably deleting references to the Division of State Police and instead inserting language that recognizes the new Department of State Police and its functions. The Superintendent of State Police will serve as the head of this new department and will also be designated as the State Director of Emergency Management.

Additionally, the bill stipulates that any personnel changes within the Department of State Police will only require the approval of the Superintendent, eliminating the need for the Attorney General's approval. The bill also clarifies that the oversight currently provided by the Office of Law Enforcement Professional Standards will continue under the new department. Overall, this legislation aims to enhance the organizational structure and operational independence of the State Police within New Jersey's government framework.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 52:17B-3, 52:17B-51