Senate Bill 1260 Summary

• Amends Arizona law to allow law enforcement officers under investigation to request a representative present during interviews that could result in dismissal, demotion, or suspension, with the representative serving as an observer only.

• Requires employers to provide written notice to officers before interviews, informing them of alleged facts, investigation specifics, their investigation status, and all known misconduct allegations.

• Permits officers and their representatives to take notes during interviews for use only in investigation or disciplinary matters; notes do not constitute official records and unauthorized release subjects participants to discipline.

• Allows officers to consult with representatives and make a statement not exceeding five minutes at the conclusion of interviews addressing specific facts or policies.

• Requires employers seeking discipline to provide a summary or file copies of discipline imposed on similarly-ranked officers within two years for same or similar violations before taking final action or scheduling a hearing.