HI HB493

Creates a new Department of the Sheriff as a separate state department, effective July 1, 2012, transferring all functions and responsibilities from the sheriff division of the Department of Public Safety.

Establishes the sheriff as the department head, appointed by the governor with required previous law enforcement experience, and creates the position of chief deputy sheriff.

Assigns specific duties to the Department of the Sheriff including law enforcement at state facilities and airports, protecting judges and judicial proceedings, executing arrest warrants, providing executive protection to state officials, and conducting criminal investigations.

Transfers all personnel, appropriations, equipment, records, and property associated with the sheriff division from the Department of Public Safety to the new department.

Appropriates funds for fiscal years 2011-2012 and 2012-2013 to establish and operate the Department of the Sheriff, with the Department of Public Safety to submit an implementation plan by twenty days prior to the 2012 legislative session.