Ten Problems
10 Problems with San Antonio’s Police Contract and State Law
Fix SAPD will continue our efforts to ensure permanent reform by repealing Chapters 143 and 174, but until we achieve that goal, there are other steps that must be taken by City Hall.
We have identified 10 key barriers to accountability in the police union contract and Chapter 143.
Removing these barriers would create a more fair and balanced system of accountability between the City and SAPOA.
1
Eliminate the provision that permits a reversal of disciplinary actions through arbitration
(CBA Art. 28.1, 28.5-11,15,18 ; Chapter 143.1016, 143.129)
2
Eliminate the provisions that provide the accused officer access to evidence before speaking to investigators
(CBA Art. 29.2 (C) ; Chapter 143.312 (g))
3
Eliminate time limitations on when investigators can conduct investigations into wrongdoing
(CBA Art. 28.19, 28.22 ; Chapter 143.117 (d))
4
Eliminate the statute of limitations that prevents the inclusion of officer’s disciplinary records during investigations
(CBA Art. 28.19 (A-E))
5
Eliminate the provisions that permit delayed interviews (48 hours) of accused officers
(CBA Art. 29.2(C)
6
Eliminate the provisions that reveal the names of the accusers to the police officers charged with wrongdoing
(CBA Art. 29.2 (C)) ; 143.312 (f))
7
Prevent officers from using the discretionary time (holiday, vacation, or bonus days) to pay themselves while on unpaid suspension
(CBA Art. 28.18)
8
Eliminate the restrictive personnel file and disciplinary records release provisions that limits civilian oversight
(CBA Art. 29.3 (F-G) ; Chapter 143.1214, 143.089 (g))
9
Eliminate the provisions that permit the city to be charged (taxpayer dollars) for certain costs following an officer’s misconduct
(CBA Art. 28.18, 36)
10
Reduce the “Evergreen Clause” (which allows previous contract to be enacted for up to 8 years if SAPOA doesn’t want to negotiate) to 6 months
(CBA Art.1)
For more, read our editorial on the San Antonio Report
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