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 legal language previously referring to the Division of State Police has been deleted, and new language has been inserted to clarify that the Division's functions, powers, and duties are now vested in the newly formed Department of State Police. The Superintendent of State Police will serve as the head of this 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 The bill also repeals certain sections of existing law that are no longer applicable under the new structure. Overall, this legislation aims to enhance the operational independence and clarity of the State Police's role within the state's governance framework.

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