MS HB1608

Creates a Civil Service Commission for the Harrison County Sheriff's Department composed of three residents of Harrison County, at least 21 years old, who have been county residents for 5 years and are not related to the sheriff by blood or marriage.

Commission members serve staggered 6-year terms with appointments made by the sheriff and approved by majority vote of the Board of Supervisors; members receive $100-$200 per month compensation.

Commission oversees all personnel rules, policies, and procedures for the sheriff's department including hiring, promotions, transfers, discipline, demotions, and discharges for employees with at least 12 months continuous service, excluding the sheriff and certain command staff.

Employees subject to personnel action may request a hearing before the commission within 30 days; the commission conducts hearings following Mississippi Rules of Evidence and Civil Procedure, with the employee bearing burden of proof by preponderance of credible evidence.

Commission decisions are enforceable immediately by the sheriff and may be appealed to circuit court within 30 days; circuit court review is limited to whether the commission's decision violates state or federal law.