Require USCP to Utilize Body-Worn Cameras Act

1/11/2023, 1:43 PM

Require USCP to Utilize Body-Worn Cameras Act

This bill requires each uniformed officer of the U.S. Capitol Police whose job duties include interacting with the general public to use a body-worn camera and ensure it is activated while on duty. This requirement does not apply to an officer serving on a personal protection detail.

Bill 117 HR 284, also known as the Require USCP to Utilize Body-Worn Cameras Act, is a piece of legislation introduced in the United States Congress. The bill aims to mandate the use of body-worn cameras by members of the United States Capitol Police (USCP) while on duty.

The bill requires all USCP officers to wear body cameras that are capable of recording audio and video footage of their interactions with the public. This footage would be stored securely and made available for review in the event of a complaint or investigation into an officer's conduct.

Proponents of the bill argue that body-worn cameras can increase transparency and accountability within the USCP, as well as improve trust between law enforcement and the public. They believe that the use of body cameras can help prevent misconduct and provide valuable evidence in cases of alleged wrongdoing. Opponents of the bill may argue that the cost of implementing body-worn cameras for all USCP officers could be prohibitive, or that the cameras could infringe on officers' privacy rights. However, supporters maintain that the benefits of increased accountability and transparency outweigh any potential drawbacks. Overall, the Require USCP to Utilize Body-Worn Cameras Act seeks to enhance the professionalism and effectiveness of the USCP by ensuring that officers are held accountable for their actions through the use of body cameras. The bill is currently under consideration in Congress, where it will be debated and potentially amended before a final vote is taken.
Congress
117

Number
HR - 284

Introduced on
2021-01-12

# Amendments
0

Sponsors
+5

Cosponsors
+5

Variations and Revisions

1/12/2021

Status of Legislation

Bill Introduced
Introduced to House
House to Vote
Introduced to Senate
Senate to Vote

Purpose and Summary

Require USCP to Utilize Body-Worn Cameras Act

This bill requires each uniformed officer of the U.S. Capitol Police whose job duties include interacting with the general public to use a body-worn camera and ensure it is activated while on duty. This requirement does not apply to an officer serving on a personal protection detail.

Bill 117 HR 284, also known as the Require USCP to Utilize Body-Worn Cameras Act, is a piece of legislation introduced in the United States Congress. The bill aims to mandate the use of body-worn cameras by members of the United States Capitol Police (USCP) while on duty.

The bill requires all USCP officers to wear body cameras that are capable of recording audio and video footage of their interactions with the public. This footage would be stored securely and made available for review in the event of a complaint or investigation into an officer's conduct.

Proponents of the bill argue that body-worn cameras can increase transparency and accountability within the USCP, as well as improve trust between law enforcement and the public. They believe that the use of body cameras can help prevent misconduct and provide valuable evidence in cases of alleged wrongdoing. Opponents of the bill may argue that the cost of implementing body-worn cameras for all USCP officers could be prohibitive, or that the cameras could infringe on officers' privacy rights. However, supporters maintain that the benefits of increased accountability and transparency outweigh any potential drawbacks. Overall, the Require USCP to Utilize Body-Worn Cameras Act seeks to enhance the professionalism and effectiveness of the USCP by ensuring that officers are held accountable for their actions through the use of body cameras. The bill is currently under consideration in Congress, where it will be debated and potentially amended before a final vote is taken.
Alternative Names
Official Title as IntroducedTo require uniformed officers of the United States Capitol Police to utilize body-worn cameras while on duty.

Policy Areas
Congress

Potential Impact
Administrative law and regulatory procedures
Congressional agencies
Congressional officers and employees
Criminal justice information and records
Government buildings, facilities, and property
Law enforcement administration and funding
Law enforcement officers
Photography and imaging
U.S. Capitol

Comments

Recent Activity

Latest Summary2/18/2021

Require USCP to Utilize Body-Worn Cameras Act

This bill requires each uniformed officer of the U.S. Capitol Police whose job duties include interacting with the general public to use a body-worn camera and ensure it is activated whi...


Latest Action1/12/2021
Referred to the House Committee on House Administration.