This browser does not support the Video element.
SAN JOSE, Calif. (KTVU) - The San Jose City Council voted 10-1 Tuesday to approve a state of emergency declaration, a move that could help with the city's police staffing shortage.
The declaration allows the city to suspend some parts of the police officers' union contract.
The council's affirmation means the city can move up to 50 detectives out of specialized positions, including the gang task force, and reassign them to patrol city streets.
The reassignment would help the city meet minimum staffing levels and cut the amount of overtime officers are being forced to work.
Under the plan, the officer assignments are expected to change Sept. 11. The staffing move will be in effect only for six months, officials say.
The plan sparked some opposition from council members who objected to the word "emergency" being placed in the declaration.