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House amends peace‑officer bill to clarify deputization for seasonal park needs
Summary
Lawmakers amended HB 202 to clarify that persons deputized for state parks must be certified officers and that 'seasonal' personnel (not full‑time staff) may be deputized; sponsors said the change preserves current authority and does not alter retirement benefits.
The House considered amendments to HB 202 (Peace Officer Standards and Training). Members debated whether language permitted park authorities to deputize persons without post‑training or to extend full police powers; sponsors said the amendment clarifies intent and limits deputization to persons already certified as police officers or special function officers who would act in a deputized capacity in state parks.
Floor debate also clarified that the amendment was intended to reflect existing practice for off‑duty or seasonal deputies hired to meet peak demand in state parks. Representatives pressed and sponsors confirmed that the bill does not change retirement benefits for those officers. After discussion and technical checks on amendment language, the House adopted the amendment and passed HB 202 by recorded vote (65–1).
The sponsor and supporters said the change resolves concerns raised in the previous day's debate and maintains current certification and oversight standards.
