Body Camera Bill Goes To Gov. Scott
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TALLAHASSEE (CBSMiami/NSF) — A measure requiring law-enforcement agencies to set policies if they use body cameras is headed to Gov. Rick Scott, after receiving unanimous approval from the state's Senate.
While the proposal doesn't require law-enforcement agencies to use body cameras, those that do would have to set standards for their use.
Sen. Chris Smith, from Fort Lauderdale, said body cameras have taken a lot of "speculation" out of law enforcement incidents.
"This is the culmination of working with many organizations, from law enforcement to civil rights groups," Smith said.
Smith and Democratic Reps. Shevrin Jones of West Park and Alan Williams of Tallahassee have been working on the legislation --- which initially would have mandated the use of body cameras by law-enforcement agencies --- for two years.
The Florida Sheriffs Association, the Florida Police Chiefs Association and the Florida Police Benevolent Association back the measure, which was unanimously approved by the House last week.
The News Service of Florida contributed to this report.
