EFFORT TO EXPEDITE STATE BUDGET
CAUSES LAW ENFORCEMENT ANXIETY
 

Widespread dissemination by several law enforcement groups of discussions by some lawmakers to charge law enforcement certification fees resulted in many calls to legislators by angry police and correctional officers.

The calls were largely premature as the fees were still in the discussion stage and most lawmakers were not even aware of the issue. The fee discussions were part of a larger discussion before the House Appropriations Sub Committee on Justice and Public Safety concerning ways to reduce the budget deficit. Layoffs and job cuts were also discussed.

While the certification fees were part of a full discussion of expanding the cost of many other licensing fees, it is believed that legislative staff writers meant for the draft language to read that an officer’s “agency” would pay the fees rather than the officer themselves paying such fees. Intended or not, this led to panic and confusion on a matter that likely was not being seriously considered by the legislature in the first place. In the end, the House on Thursday, June 11, 2009, voted 114 to 0 not to consider the certification fee issue under any circumstances whether paid by the agency or the officer.
 

OTHER PBA LEGISLATIVE NEWS

SB411, AMEND SURVIVOR’S BENEFIT by Senator Pete Brunstetter
HB766, Representative Larry Womble and Erline Parmon
 

On Tuesday, June 16, 2009, Governor Bev Perdue signed SB411 into law in a formal bill signing ceremony in the Old House Chambers of the State Capitol.

As you recall, this bill was introduced at PBA’s request and in honor of Winston-Salem Police Sergeant and PBA member, Sgt. Howard Plouff, who was shot and killed in the line of duty after responding to a call to assist fellow officers.

Howard’s wife and high school sweetheart, Mrs. Joyce Plouff, was present at the bill signing along with Senator Brunstetter, other legislators and PBA and police officials. Ms. Plouff was asked to speak by Governor Perdue. Her brief but eloquent remarks reflecting her love for her husband received a warm and moving reception by the gathered audience, which included representatives from the NC Sheriffs, NC Association of Police Chiefs, and the Fraternal Order of Police.

all photos taken by Dean Smith, all rights reserved

Joyce Plouff speaking with Rep. Larry Womble and Rep. Earline Parmon before bill signing

Governor Perdue speaking about SB 411 as Joyce Plouff looks on

Joyce Plouff speaking as Governor Perdue looks on

Senator Brunstetter speaking about the importance of this critical legislation

Rep. Womble offers comments about his support of the legislation

Governor Perdue signs SB 411 into law

Joyce Plouff and the Governor exchange a heartfelt hug

Governor Perdue presents bill signing pens

HB816 by Representative Tricia Cotham

Following several conversations to address a technical concern raised by the NC League of Municipalities, a revised language draft was prepared and submitted to bill drafters in the legislative fiscal research department. The new language eliminates the League’s concern about possible litigation problems and also removes perceived ambiguities and clarifies the effective date so that current officers and retirees will receive the same benefits under law.

One other concern has been identified which is currently being resolved. Once all concerns are addressed, the bill will be calendared again before the Senate Pensions and Retirement Committee in hopes of being passed into law this session.

We will keep you posted.