HB 1566 -- Civil Service Commissions in Political Subdivisions

Sponsor:  Gray

This bill establishes a civil service commission to meet at least
monthly in each political subdivision with a full-time paid fire
department, fire protection district, or ambulance district
organized under Chapter 321, RSMo.  The qualifications of
commission members and the powers and duties of the commission
are specified, including establishing and administering
competitive examinations for employment.  The civil service will
include all full-time paid employees of fire departments and fire
protection districts, except that an appointed fire chief may be
excluded by the political subdivision.  Appointments and
promotions within the fire departments and districts will be made
solely on merit, efficiency, and fitness after an open
competitive examination and impartial investigation.  Reasons for
termination are specified, including conviction of a misdemeanor
or felony and mental or physical unfitness.  Residency within the
political subdivision cannot be required as a condition of
employment.  Non-probationary persons employed by fire
departments and districts for at least six continuous months
immediately preceding the effective date of the bill will be
deemed permanently appointed without examination and can be
demoted or removed only for cause upon written accusation.

The provisions of the bill will not apply to political
subdivisions that already provide for substantially similar civil
service in fire departments and districts or that subsequently
provide for it by ordinance or charter provision.  Political
subdivisions must comply with the requirements of the bill within
90 days after its effective date.  County prosecutors are
required to enforce the deadline for the appointment of a
commission through a writ of mandamus.

Missouri House of Representatives
95th General Assembly, 2nd Regular Session
Last Updated September 14, 2010 at 3:11 pm