The proposed bill, titled "The Willie Washington, Jr. Act," aims to enhance accountability and transparency within correctional facilities by mandating the use of body cameras by correctional staff in direct supervision roles. Under the new Chapter 56.1 of Title 42, all staff members are required to wear body cameras while on duty and activate them during specific interactions with incarcerated individuals, such as use of force incidents, medical emergencies, and disciplinary proceedings. The recordings must be retained for a minimum of sixty days and can only be accessed by authorized personnel. Incarcerated individuals will be informed about the use of body cameras and have the right to request footage that involves them.

Additionally, the bill establishes an independent incident oversight board (IIOB) to review recorded incidents and investigate complaints against staff. The Department of Corrections is tasked with providing biannual reports to the General Assembly on recorded incidents and access requests, as well as ensuring comprehensive training for staff on body camera usage and data privacy. Non-compliance with the body camera policies may result in disciplinary actions, including termination. The department is required to implement the necessary protocols and training programs within six months of the bill's passage.