FL S0998

Defines "chief of police" as a full-time appointed or employed person serving as the chief law enforcement officer of a state or local law enforcement agency, excluding elected officials and certain state agency executives.

Prohibits termination of a chief of police without written notice stating just cause and a public meeting or hearing where the chief may present a defense and be represented by counsel.

Protects chiefs of police from discharge, discipline, demotion, denial of promotion, transfer, reassignment, or employment discrimination for exercising rights under this statute.

Requires an aggrieved chief of police to provide written notice of an alleged violation to the employing agency within 3 days, and the agency must cure the violation within 5 days unless a longer period is agreed to or required for public meeting notice.

Takes effect July 1, 2023.