SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 5876

BYSenators Pullen, Warnke and Vognild

Requiring that certain laid-off sheriff's employees be transferred to municipal police departments.

Senate Committee on Governmental Operations

Senate Hearing Date(s):March 1, 1989

Senate Staff:Desley Brooks (786-7443); Sam Thompson (786-7754)

AS OF MARCH 1, 1989

BACKGROUND:

As unincorporated areas become more urbanized and territory is annexed to cities, the remaining resources of the county may be insufficient to sustain the full force of the county sheriff's department.  It has been suggested that displaced law enforcement employees should have an opportunity for similar employment with the annexing city or town.

SUMMARY:

The transfer of sheriff's department employees to local municipal police agencies is required if lay-offs occur as a result of annexation or incorporation of any county area.  Eligible employees may request transfer to a municipal civil service commission of the municipality.  The transfer is made upon receipt of the request, provided the employee meets the minimum standards and qualifications of the municipality.  The employee shall receive a salary at least equal to that of other new police department employees.

The municipality may determine the number of newly transferred officers needed to provide adequate law enforcement services.  The remaining transferred employees would head a list in order of seniority and would be first eligible for hire when department vacancies become available.

Appropriation:    none

Revenue:    none

Fiscal Note:      requested February 22, 1989