TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 23-1-240 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT ALL LAW ENFORCEMENT AGENCIES MUST EQUIP THEIR OFFICERS WITH WEARABLE VIDEO CAMERAS.

Whereas, the recent events in Ferguson, Missouri have caused citizens across this country to examine, consider, and implement more effective and safer means to enforce the laws of our land; and

Whereas, many law enforcement agencies across our nation are studying whether a law enforcement officer's use of a body video camera to record his activities can bring measurable benefits to relations between law enforcement agencies and the civilian population; and

Whereas, in the first year after its officer's were equipped with body video cameras, in 2012, the City of Rialto, California reported that the numbers of complaints filed against its officers fell by eighty-eight percent compared with the previous twelve months. In addition, use of force by officers fell almost sixty percent; and

Whereas, it would be fitting and proper to require all law enforcement officers to be equipped with wearable body cameras. Now, therefore,

Be it enacted by the General Assembly of the State of South Carolina:

SECTION    1.    Chapter 1, Title 23 of the 1976 Code is amended by adding:

"Section 23-1-240.    All law enforcement agencies shall equip their officers with wearable video cameras that must be worn, and record their activities while they are on duty."

SECTION    2.    This act takes effect upon approval by the Governor.