HI HB493

Creates a new independent department of the sheriff, separate from the department of public safety, effective July 1, 2012, to be headed by a sheriff appointed by the governor with prior law enforcement experience.

Transfers all functions, duties, and authority of the sheriff division from the department of public safety to the new department of the sheriff, including law enforcement at state facilities, court security, judicial protection, airport security, and arrest warrant execution.

Establishes the sheriff as a principal state department under the governor's supervision and requires the sheriff to appoint a chief deputy sheriff with law enforcement experience to serve as functional equivalent of a deputy director.

Excludes the department of the sheriff from responsibilities relating to corrections under chapter 353 or controlled substances under chapter 329, unless activities are ancillary to sheriff duties.

Appropriates unspecified sums from general revenues for fiscal years 2011-2012 and 2012-2013 for implementation and operation of the new department.