AR SB447

Restricts civil service commission boards to cities of the first class and allows establishment upon city discretion or petition by qualified electors equaling 10% of votes cast in the preceding mayoral election.

Requires city to hire independent legal counsel on annual basis to represent the city and department head when managerial employment decisions are reviewed before the commission, separate from the city attorney's role advising commissioners.

Lowers minimum age requirement for fire department appointments from 21 years to 18 years of age, with option for commissions to require 21 years; increases maximum age exception for experienced firefighters from 32 years to 34 years remainder after subtracting prior service.

Reduces timeframe for certifying promotion eligibility lists from 90 days to 60 days and shortens temporary appointment/promotion periods from 60 days to 30 days when current eligibility lists exist.

Changes suspension notification requirement from "three (3) days" to "twenty-four (24) or more hours" and modifies appeal procedures, transcript cost responsibilities, and court review standards for employee discharge and reduction cases.