Free Public Access to Police Body Camera and Surveillance Footage.
This bill aims to ensure citizens can access video footage recorded by law enforcement officers, including body camera and dash camera footage, as well as jail surveillance, without incurring any financial costs. It requires state and local governments seeking federal public safety grants to certify that they do not charge the public any fees for viewing or obtaining copies of this footage. This change removes financial barriers, making it easier and cheaper for citizens to obtain crucial evidence related to police interactions and transparency.
Key points
Prohibition on Fees: State and local governments are banned from charging any financial or monetary costs, including court fees, for the public to view, access, or obtain copies of specified law enforcement video footage.
Covered Footage: The free access requirement applies to body camera, dash camera, jail/prison surveillance, and other relevant law enforcement agency footage.
Funding Consequence: Governments that charge fees for this footage will become ineligible for major federal public safety funding programs (Byrne and COPS grants).
Status:
Introduced
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