Senate Bill 298 seeks to reform police officers' pay increase process in Nevada
May 10, 2025 | 2025 Legislature NV, Nevada
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The Assembly Committee on Judiciary convened on May 9, 2025, to discuss Senate Bill 298, which proposes revisions to the Peace Officers Bill of Rights in Nevada. The bill aims to redefine punitive actions against peace officers, specifically addressing the withholding of pay increases during administrative investigations.
Harrison Porter, vice chairman of the Las Vegas Police Managers and Supervisors Association, presented the bill, emphasizing the need for due process when denying step increases or seniority. He cited a recent case where an officer was denied a standard pay increase while under investigation, leading to compounded disciplinary actions without a clear finding of fault. Porter argued that such practices are excessive and detrimental to officers' financial stability.
The bill seeks to ensure that peace officers are not penalized with withheld pay increases without due process, asserting that accountability should be maintained through established internal affairs procedures. Porter clarified that the bill does not protect officers under criminal investigations but focuses on administrative matters.
Committee members raised questions about the implications of the bill, particularly regarding the distinction between merit-based and contractual pay increases. Some members expressed concerns about the potential for officers to receive pay increases despite serious misconduct, while others highlighted the importance of protecting officers' rights during investigations.
Supporters of the bill, including representatives from various police associations, echoed the need for clarity and fairness in the treatment of officers facing disciplinary actions. They argued that the current system lacks transparency and can lead to unjust penalties.
Opposition testimony came from representatives of the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department, who contended that the bill could undermine the collective bargaining process and allow officers guilty of serious misconduct to receive pay increases. They emphasized that pay increases should be earned based on performance and that the current system already provides mechanisms for accountability.
The committee did not reach a conclusion during the meeting, and further discussions are expected as the bill progresses through the legislative process. The outcome of Senate Bill 298 could significantly impact the rights and protections of peace officers in Nevada, balancing accountability with due process.
Harrison Porter, vice chairman of the Las Vegas Police Managers and Supervisors Association, presented the bill, emphasizing the need for due process when denying step increases or seniority. He cited a recent case where an officer was denied a standard pay increase while under investigation, leading to compounded disciplinary actions without a clear finding of fault. Porter argued that such practices are excessive and detrimental to officers' financial stability.
The bill seeks to ensure that peace officers are not penalized with withheld pay increases without due process, asserting that accountability should be maintained through established internal affairs procedures. Porter clarified that the bill does not protect officers under criminal investigations but focuses on administrative matters.
Committee members raised questions about the implications of the bill, particularly regarding the distinction between merit-based and contractual pay increases. Some members expressed concerns about the potential for officers to receive pay increases despite serious misconduct, while others highlighted the importance of protecting officers' rights during investigations.
Supporters of the bill, including representatives from various police associations, echoed the need for clarity and fairness in the treatment of officers facing disciplinary actions. They argued that the current system lacks transparency and can lead to unjust penalties.
Opposition testimony came from representatives of the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department, who contended that the bill could undermine the collective bargaining process and allow officers guilty of serious misconduct to receive pay increases. They emphasized that pay increases should be earned based on performance and that the current system already provides mechanisms for accountability.
The committee did not reach a conclusion during the meeting, and further discussions are expected as the bill progresses through the legislative process. The outcome of Senate Bill 298 could significantly impact the rights and protections of peace officers in Nevada, balancing accountability with due process.
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