AL HB455

Amends Code of Alabama Section 45-37-232.40 to authorize the Sheriff of Jefferson County to employ confidential secretaries for both the Birmingham Division and Bessemer Division, rather than just one position.

Confidential secretaries shall receive the same compensation as the confidential secretary of the Jefferson County Commission and are exempt from the county merit system.

Employees transitioning from county merit system positions to confidential secretary roles are entitled to return to equivalent or higher merit system positions upon termination, with service time counting toward merit system benefits.

Confidential secretaries are eligible for the same benefits as merit system employees, including longevity pay, and may join applicable county pension plans within 30 days of employment.

Prohibits persons employed as confidential secretaries from running for elected county office while employed.

Effective the first day of the third month following passage and approval by the Governor.