The Fire Fighter Bill of Rights SB60 passed the House on a vote of 65-0 late Wednesday February17th. It was quickly concurred on the Senate floor and signed into law by Governor Bill Richardson. We have a new state law that protects due process right for fire fighters and EMTs who are public employees. They cannot be interogated without notice and explaination of the alledged misconduct. They can produce their own witnesses and cross examine others. The interogation cannot be longer than two hours, with more than two interogators, and it cannot be conducted in an abusive fashion. The fire fighter/EMT will have the ability to attend to their physical needs and they do not have to sign any statements which are to be placed in their personnel file. In fact they can enter their own statements as well. The law also protects their ability to be involved in any political activity conducted during thier off-duty hours. This is a great standard for our profession. It places us on the same level as law enforcement officers in New Mexico. Thanks to the Governor for his strong support.

SB0060.pdf