TX SB2482

Creates a new population tier for counties with 3.3 million or more residents, requiring the sheriff, commissioners court, and district attorney to each appoint three members to the civil service commission (totaling 11 members including two joint appointments), compared to current law allowing only seven members for counties with 2.8 million or more

Adds eligibility requirement that civil service commission members must not have been finally convicted of a felony, in addition to existing requirements of being at least 25 years old and residing in the county for three years

Establishes third-party hearing examiner option for terminated employees in counties with 3.3 million+ population, allowing appeals to independent arbitrators selected through the American Arbitration Association or Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service, with decisions being final and binding

Increases the number of administrative/supervisory positions the sheriff may designate as exempt from civil service from 25 to 32 in counties with more than 3.3 million population

Creates detailed employee investigation protections for counties with 3.3 million+ population, including requirements for interrogations during normal work hours, 48-hour advance notice of complaints, written verification of complaints, and automatic reversal of punitive actions if investigation procedures are violated