Rep. Huot Introduces Legislation to Limit ‘Stay Away Pay’ for Public Employees under Investigation

SAINT PAUL, MINNESOTA – Representative John Huot (DFL- Rosemount) today introduced legislation that would cap paid leave for public employees with pending investigations for misconduct, malfeasance, and crimes. Rep. Huot drafted the bill in response to an incident involving a former Apple Valley Fire Chief who was under investigation for sexual contact with a subordinate employee. The fire chief received approximately $75,000 while on leave.

“Constituents were calling and asking what we could do about the misuse of these public dollars,” Rep. Huot remarked. “This is a serious issue that needs to be addressed and I’m committed to working with my colleagues in the House and Senate to get it done.”

Representative Huot’s legislation would place a 90 day cap on the time public employees can be placed on paid leave. House Republicans have already indicated their support of the proposal.