Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

Pennsylvania House Bill HB1299

Introduced
6/2/23  

Caption

In recordings by law enforcement officers, further providing for audio recording or video recording policies.

Impact

If enacted, HB 1299 could significantly affect state laws regarding the management and dissemination of audio and video recordings made by police officers. This would include provisions for public access to recordings, as well as stipulations on the situations in which such recordings may be made and their subsequent usage in legal contexts. Proponents argue that this will lead to greater accountability within law enforcement, fostering public trust in police activities. However, it will also necessitate that law enforcement agencies adjust their practices to comply with the new regulations.

Summary

House Bill 1299 aims to establish policies regarding audio and video recordings by law enforcement officers. The bill seeks to provide a clearer framework for how recordings should be managed and accessed, thereby enhancing transparency in law enforcement practices. By defining specific guidelines, the legislation intends to protect citizens' rights while ensuring that law enforcement agencies can effectively carry out their duties with the necessary tools at their disposal.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 1299 appears to be mixed. Supporters of the bill, consisting primarily of transparency advocates and civil rights organizations, express a positive outlook on the potential for improved accountability and oversight of law enforcement. Conversely, some law enforcement agencies and their affiliates exhibit wariness about the constraints the bill may impose on their operations, raising concerns about how stringent regulations could hinder their ability to carry out necessary surveillance and investigative activities. The discussion indicates a balancing act between upholding public accountability and preserving operational efficacy for police.

Contention

Notable points of contention in the discussions surrounding HB 1299 include the balance between privacy rights and public safety. Critics of the bill argue that overly restrictive audio and video recording policies could inhibit law enforcement’s ability to document evidence pertinent to investigations, while proponents maintain that the bill is essential for protecting the rights of individuals against potential abuses of power. This debate underscores fundamental tensions regarding oversight, privacy, and the fundamental roles of law enforcement in society.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA SB520

In wiretapping and electronic surveillance, further providing for definitions and repealing provisions relating to public access; in enforcement relating to fish, further providing for powers and duties of waterways conservation officers and deputies; in enforcement relating to game, further providing for powers and duties of enforcement officers; in recordings by law enforcement officers, further providing for definitions and for audio recording or video recording policies; in Pennsylvania Board of Probation and Parole, further providing for powers and duties of Department of Corrections; and making transfers between the State Gaming Fund and certain restricted accounts.

PA AB748

Peace officers: video and audio recordings: disclosure.

PA SB1148

Law enforcement; video recordings; fee

PA AB424

Depositions: audio or video recordings.

PA HB1142

Law enforcement recordings.

PA AB459

Public records: video or audio recordings: crime.

PA HB578

Providing for recordings by body-worn cameras.

PA SB398

Exempts video or audio recordings generated by law enforcement body-worn cameras from Public Records Law. (8/1/16)

PA HF1366

Duties imposed on peace officers and law enforcement agencies regarding video and audio recordings of use of deadly force, and civil remedy provided.

PA HB1455

Relative to photography, audio recordings, and video recordings in public buildings and on public lands.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.