This bill introduces new restrictions on covered peace officers (public officials or employees of a political subdivision of the state who are required to be certified by the P.O.S.T. (Peace Officer Standards and Training) Board). Here's a breakdown:
Key Provisions:
Designation of Covered Peace Officers:
A covered peace officer is someone who:
Is a public official or employed by a political subdivision of the state (e.g., local government or law enforcement agency).
Is required to be certified by the P.O.S.T. board.
Restrictions on Political Activity:
Covered peace officers are prohibited from:
Using or authorizing the use of public resources (e.g., government time, funds, or materials) for the purpose of campaigning for or against the nomination or election of a candidate.
Engaging in partisan political activity while wearing a uniform that is required by the political subdivision (e.g., police uniforms).
Penalties for Violations:
A covered peace officer who violates these rules could face:
A penalty of up to $1,000.
Potential dismissal from their position as a covered peace officer.
This bill restricts the political activity of peace officers to ensure they are not using public resources or appearing in uniform while engaging in partisan political activities. Violations could result in financial penalties or termination. The goal is to prevent the appearance of political bias or misuse of public resources in the context of elections.
Summary
The bill designates a category of peace officers as covered peace
officers. A covered peace officer is an individual who is both:
•
A public official or employed by a political subdivision of the state; and
•
Required to be certified by the P.O.S.T. board. The bill prohibits a covered peace officer from:
•
Using or authorizing the use of public resources for the purpose of campaigning for or against the nomination or election of a candidate; and
•
Engaging in partisan political activity while wearing a uniform required by a political subdivision of the state.
The bill includes a penalty for violating these prohibitions of up to $1,000 and potential dismissal from employment as a covered peace officer.
