SUFFOLK COUNTY — Suffolk County officials are expected to vote next week on a new contract with the PBA, which, if approved, will shift the responsibility for patrolling the LIE and Sunrise Highway from the sheriff's department to the Suffolk police. Staffing levels will not be affected and available highway and other units will be used, said Suffolk County Police Commissioner Edward Webber.

Critics of the contract fear the move will lead to a heated battle over job protection between Suffolk County and the union representing deputy sheriffs.