Legislation that would require law enforcement agencies in Florida to develop standard procedures for the use of police body cameras passed unanimously in the House Appropriations Committee. HB 93 is now that much closer to becoming law. Representative Shevrin Jones, D-West Park, believes this bill will create increased transparency between the public and law enforcement as it has proven to be successful in other states. The proposal would serve to protect both citizens and law enforcement officers alike. (Shevrin Jones Twitter image)
Legislation that would require law enforcement agencies in Florida to develop standard procedures for the use of police body cameras passed unanimously in the House Appropriations Committee.
HB 93 is now that much closer to becoming law.
Representative Shevrin Jones, D-West Park, believes this bill will create increased transparency between the public and law enforcement as it has proven to be successful in other states. The proposal would serve to protect both citizens and law enforcement officers alike.
HB 93 would require law enforcement agencies around the state to create policies and procedures for body camera use, data recording and storage in compliance with public records laws, including those privacy protections previously passed by the Legislature.
The bill also would require agencies to perform periodic review of practices to ensure compliance.
Shevrin Jones
“With all the recent shootings we hear about in the media, this bill eliminates a lot of the concern about transparency. That’s a huge public concern and this legislation would go a long way to address it.” said Rep. Jones.
The bill next goes to the House Judiciary Committee and may then be considered by the full House, if voted favorably. A Senate companion bill, SB 418, is sponsored by Sen. Chris Smith, D-Fort Lauderdale.
