Governor Napolitano Signs SB 1303

December 6, 2005

Senate Bill 1303 grants Probation and Surveillance Officers employed by the State or a political subdivision of the State overtime compensation and representation rights. The Bill also clarifies how probation and surveillance officers are defined.  The Bill allows for Probation and Surveillance Officers to be compensated for each hour worked in excess of 80 hours in a two-week work period at time and a half. It also allows officers representation in situations where discipline is anticipated and the overall right to organize without fear of retaliation.

The Bill had met overwhelming and bi-partisan support during the 2005 Legislative Session. In attendance for the ceremony, and representing 10 probation associations - also affiliated members of AZCOPS, NCPSO/CWA Local 7077, were Association Presidents Lu Ebratt from Maricopa County, Jack Berry from Yavapai County, and Don Stokes from La Paz County. There are currently more than 1,000 probation officers who are members of AZCOPS and NCPSO/CWA who are affected by this legislation.