Opinion ID: 2518071
Heading Depth: 3
Heading Rank: 1

Heading: The Commission Had Authority To Reconsider Its Decision

Text: ¶ 9 Contrary to the City's argument, state law does not prohibit the Commission from reconsidering its initial order. RCW 41.12.040(1) authorizes police civil service commissions [t]o make suitable rules and regulations not inconsistent with the provisions of [chapter 41.12 RCW]. The Commission here enacted a rule allowing a party to move for reconsideration within 10 days of the Commission's decision. CP at 60 (City of Medina Civil Service Rule (MCSR) 18.31, Ex. A to Decl. of William Murphy). Under RCW 41.12.040(1), the Commission's rule is invalid only if it is inconsistent with another provision of chapter 41.12 RCW. ¶ 10 The City argues that the Commission's rule allowing for reconsideration is inconsistent with RCW 41.12.090. RCW 41.12.090 provides, in pertinent part: If such judgment or order be concurred in by the commission or a majority thereof, the accused may appeal therefrom to the court of original and unlimited jurisdiction in civil suits of the county wherein he or she resides. Such appeal shall be taken by serving the commission, within thirty days after the entry of such judgment or order, a written notice of appeal. This provision is silent as to motions for reconsideration; it neither authorizes nor prohibits such motions. As a result, it cannot fairly be said that the rule allowing for reconsideration is inconsistent with the statute. The Commission's rule, therefore, validly authorizes the filing of a motion for reconsideration. [1]