HF71

The legislative bill modifies the Peace Officers Discipline Procedures Act by including local correctional officers under its remit. Specifically, the amendment changes the definitions within the Minnesota Statutes to clarify that the term "correctional officer" now also refers to individuals working in security roles at local correctional or detention facilities. Additionally, it specifies what constitutes a formal statement during the discipline process of an officer—this includes recorded, stenographic, or signed statements used as evidence in disciplinary proceedings.

Furthermore, the bill adjusts language regarding the applicability of these procedures, stating that they are applicable to local correctional facilities and local detention facilities for disciplinary purposes, but not for criminal investigations against officers. This legislative change guarantees that local correctional officers are afforded the same procedural rights as other peace officers under state law when facing disciplinary actions.