AZ SB1212

Law enforcement officers cannot be subject to disciplinary action except for just cause, with exceptions for officers still in probationary periods and administrative dismissals like reductions in force.

Officers who are demoted or terminated due to an employer reversing a hearing officer, administrative law judge, or appeals board decision finding no just cause may bring an action in superior court for a de novo hearing.

Officers demoted or terminated by employers without a hearing officer, administrative law judge, or appeals board review process may bring a superior court action to review the agency file; if the court finds no just cause, the officer is entitled to a hearing.

If the superior court finds no just cause for demotion or termination, the officer must be reinstated to their previous position and may be awarded monetary damages not exceeding lost wages and benefits during the period of imposed disciplinary action.

The law defines "just cause" as requiring the employer informed the officer of possible discipline, the action relates to professional standards and agency operations, the conduct is supported by preponderance of evidence, and the discipline is not excessive relative to the offense and service record.