Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

Pennsylvania Senate Bill SB1194

Introduced

5/17/24

Refer

5/17/24

Refer

10/21/24

Caption

In enforcement, further providing for powers and duties of waterways conservation officers and deputies; and, in enforcement, further providing for powers and duties of enforcement officers.

Impact

The implications of SB1194 would be significant for law enforcement practices in Pennsylvania, specifically related to the oversight and enforcement of fisheries and game laws. By equipping officers with body cameras, the legislation seeks to bolster the integrity of their operations and promote accountability in interactions with the public. The bill would amend existing laws to formally recognize waterways conservation officers as law enforcement personnel under specific regulations, enhancing their authority and the legitimacy of their enforcement actions.

Summary

SB1194 aims to amend Titles 30 (Fish) and 34 (Game) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes to enhance the powers and duties of waterways conservation officers and enforcement officers. A key provision allows these officers, who have received appropriate training, to wear body cameras while performing their official duties. This move is intended to improve transparency and accountability within the enforcement of conservation laws, ultimately fostering better relations between law enforcement and the communities they serve.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB1194 appears to be generally positive, with strong support from various stakeholders interested in conservation and law enforcement reform. Proponents emphasize the advantages of increased transparency and the potential for improved public trust in enforcement agencies. The bill was reported as committed in the Senate Game and Fisheries committee, receiving unanimous support (11-0) during its vote, indicating a collaborative effort to advance conservation efforts while promoting law enforcement accountability.

Contention

Despite the broad support, there may be underlying concerns regarding the implementation and the costs associated with equipping officers with body cameras. Additionally, some stakeholders may raise questions about privacy and data management related to the recordings made by these devices during routine checks and enforcement actions. However, the primary contention has not been heavily reported, suggesting a largely cooperative political environment regarding the bill's considerations.

Latest SB1194 Activity

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 HB1802

In enforcement, further providing for powers and duties of enforcement officers.

PA HB1353

In Pennsylvania Game Commission, further providing for Game Commission officers and employees; and, in enforcement, further providing for powers and duties of enforcement officers.

PA HB2107

In enforcement, further providing for powers and duties of enforcement officers; and, in protection of property and persons, providing for mitigation of damage and for registry of responsible hunters.

PA HB597

In powers and duties, further providing for powers and duties of counties.

PA HB1295

In powers and duties, further providing for hearing examiners.

PA HB1117

In powers and duties of the Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs, further providing for powers and duties.

PA HB1232

In powers and duties of elected officials, further providing for surcharge by auditors; in powers, duties and rights of appointed officers and employees, further providing for borough manager created by ordinance and election, for powers and duties, for other offices not incompatible and for organization of commission; and, in taxation and finance, further providing for preparation of budget.