Relating to the confidentiality of peer support communications for public safety officers

This bill relates to the confidentiality of peer support communications for public safety officers.1 (peace officer, public safety, and emergency personnel bill of rights) by providing that the peace officer, public safety, and emergency personnel bill of rights does not require the disclosure, use, or consideration of confidential peer support communications in any informal inquiry, formal administrative investigation, disciplinary proceeding, or Brady-Giglio determination. The bill allows peer support group counselors to testify or otherwise disclose a confidential communication that includes a plan to commit a crime or information related to the commission of a crime, a threat of harm to oneself or others, or information required by law to be disclosed. 10 (communications in professional confidence) and creates new Code chapter 622C for the evidentiary privilege of peer support communications. The bill provides that, except as otherwise specified, a peer support group counselor is not permitted to testify or disclose confidential communications made by an officer during peer support or crisis intervention sessions. _____ disciplinary proceeding, or Brady-Giglio disclosure or proceeding, except as otherwise provided or as constitutionally required. The bill provides that new Code chapter 622C does not limit an employer’s authority to direct an employee to an employee assistance program or to require a fitness-for-duty evaluation, and the chapter is construed to liberally promote candid and confidential communications during peer support services for public safety professionals.