Legislation that would require law enforcement agencies in Florida to develop standard procedures for the use of police body cameras passed unanimously in House Judiciary Committee this week. (Shevrin Jones Twitter image)
TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA – Legislation that would require law enforcement agencies in Florida to develop standard procedures for the use of police body cameras passed unanimously in House Judiciary Committee this week.
HB 93 has now cleared all committees and is ready for the House floor.
Representative Shevrin Jones, D-West Park, envisions his bill providing more comprehensive protections for both citizens and law enforcement officers. He believes body cameras will capture what dash cams cannot, creating more reliability and transparency for both parties.
“I look forward to this bill becoming law,” said Rep. Jones.
“It has received great bipartisan support and is highly favored by law enforcement agencies across the state.”
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
“I would like to thank the family of Corey Jones for coming out on Wednesday in support of this great bill. Though I filed this very bill last year, their story really motivated me to ensure it passes successfully through the House and into law,” said Rep. Jones.
If approved, it will become effective law throughout the state of Florida. A Senate companion bill, SB 418, is sponsored by Sen. Chris Smith, D-Fort Lauderdale.
