Senate Bill No. 1229 seeks to amend existing laws related to the fees for copying, reviewing, and redacting records generated by police body-worn cameras and dashboard cameras under the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA). The bill introduces new definitions, such as "requesting party," "involved person," and "redact," and mandates that police officers use body-worn recording equipment during public interactions. It establishes protocols for the review and public disclosure of recordings, allowing officers to review recordings related to their actions before public release, particularly in cases involving the use of force. The bill also specifies that public agencies may charge for redaction labor costs after the first four hours, with a maximum fee of $100 per hour, while ensuring that certain individuals, such as involved persons and their legal representatives, are exempt from these fees.

Additionally, SB 1229 includes provisions that require police officers to receive annual training on the use of recording equipment and mandates law enforcement units to comply with new reporting requirements. The bill clarifies that recordings involving confidential interactions, such as those with minors or medical evaluations, must be redacted, and it requires agencies to maintain unredacted copies of any records that are redacted for public dissemination. The changes outlined in the bill are set to take effect on October 1, 2025, and aim to enhance transparency and accountability in law enforcement while protecting the rights of individuals involved in recorded incidents.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 29-6d
GAE Joint Favorable: 29-6d
File No. 128: 29-6d