NJ A3431

Establishes procedural protections for State law enforcement officers (including correction officers) facing disciplinary investigations and hearings, including the right to counsel or union representation during questioning, 24-hour advance notice before being questioned, and prohibition on lie detector tests

Sets strict timelines for disciplinary proceedings: investigations of citizen/inmate complaints must begin within 15 days; departmental complaints must be filed within 45 days of discovering the violation; hearings must be scheduled 10-30 days after complaint service; and findings must be issued within 30 days of investigation conclusion or charges are dismissed

Requires officers suspended without pay due to criminal charges to receive full back pay within 30 days if found not guilty, charges are dismissed, or prosecution is terminated

Mandates that officers found not guilty at disciplinary hearings be reinstated with full restoration of pay, benefits, seniority, and other emoluments, with no record of the charges placed in their personnel file

Allows officers to request hearings before an impartial arbitrator and grants appeal rights to the Commissioner of Personnel or Merit System Board; does not apply to State Police officers and troopers