11K-1.003. Policy

(1) The initial qualification for a sheriff to receive salary supplement shall be to complete 40 hours of approved education/training courses as outlined in  subsection (4). Additionally, sheriffs newly elected after the effective date of this rule may achieve initial qualification by successful completion of the “Florida Sheriffs Institute” sponsored by the Florida Sheriffs Association, provided that the Executive Director, FDLE, or their designee has certified that the “Florida Sheriffs Institute” meets the requirements for 40 hours of approved special qualification salary training. The Florida Sheriffs Institute is permitted to be completed by newly elected sheriffs after the election is certified and shall count toward the calendar year they are sworn in.

(2) In order to remain qualified, the sheriff shall thereafter be required to complete each calendar year 20 hours of approved education/training courses as outlined in subsection (4).

(3) An approved course may not be repeated by a sheriff for salary supplement for a period of at least 3 years.

(4) For purposes of this section, the following approved education/training courses will apply for either initial qualification or maintenance of initial qualification, provided however that programs for maintenance of initial qualification are attended during the calendar year for which special qualification salary is sought:

(a) Executive level courses offered through the Florida Criminal Justice Executive Institute specific management level or leadership programs offered by the following associations, colleges, universities, or organizations:

1. National Sheriffs’ Association (National Sheriff ‘s Institute Management Program).

2. Southern Police Institute (Executive and Management/Administrative Course).

3. Northwestern Traffic Institute (Management and Administrative Course).

4. FBI National Academy.

5. The Florida Sheriffs Association Center for Excellence.

(5) In the event of exceptional or emergency circumstances, which preclude a sheriff from attending approved educational training courses, a sheriff may request from the Executive Director, FDLE, an extension of up to 90 days provided a written request is received and approved prior to the sheriff’s special qualification salary date of expiration.

(6) In addition, any other education/training program approved by the Executive Director, FDLE, or their designee in accordance with the following procedures, will satisfy the requirements of Section 145.071, F.S.

(a) Requests for course approval must be received by the Florida Criminal Justice Executive Institute 30 days prior to commencement of the course and should contain the following specific items:

1. Course outline and number of hours.

2. List of instructors.

3. Projected date of attendance.

(b) Upon approval by the Executive Director, FDLE, or their designee, the Director of the Florida Criminal Justice Executive Institute will make a recommendation and will respond in writing to the sheriff at least 10 days prior to course commencement.

Rulemaking Authority 145.071, 943.03(4) FS. Law Implemented 145.071 FS. History–New 2-1-84, Formerly 11K-1.03, Amended 5-29-91, 5-29-14.