Reappointment after temporary leave

(1) (a) Consistent with policies adopted by the commission and within the appointing authority's discretion, a merit system officer may be granted a temporary leave of absence outside the department. (b) Leave granted under Subsection (1)(a) is without pay and for a period not to exceed one year. (c) In accordance with applicable law or ordinance, the appointing authority may reappoint the merit system officer without examination at the end of the leave. (2) (a) In the event a merit system officer is elected sheriff or is appointed to any merit-exempt position in the department, the merit system officer's merit system status shall automatically be suspended for the period of time the officer remains sheriff or in a merit-exempt appointment. (b) At the end of the period of election to sheriff or suspension of merit status under Subsection (2)(a), the merit system officer shall be returned to the merit system officer's former position as a merit system officer without examination. (3) The appointing authority shall authorize any leave required by federal law.