Legislation Would Restore the Public’s Right to Know about Police Conduct

The California State Senate took a historical step in June towards upholding police accountability in our communities in its vote to pass SB 1019, a bill authored by Senate Majority Leader Gloria Romero.  The California State Assembly Public Safety CommitteE, however, refused to motion for a vote, holding the bill until the next congressional session.

Police accountability affects all communities.  Join the ACLU-NC and our many coalition partners in our campaign to restore civilian oversight and keep police departments in your area accountable.

In August 2006, the California State Supreme Court decided Copley Press v. Superior Court.  The decision closed down records and hearings involving police conduct throughout the state to the public.  As a result of Copley Press, the public is now prevented by law from learning about serious police misconduct and discipline issues.

Secrecy around police misconduct reduces accountability, erodes public trust, and strains police-community relations.  Access to police records is necessary for citizens to feel they can trust the police department. 

SB 1019, a bill authored by Senate Majority Leader Gloria Romero, would directly overturn the Copley Press decision and restore public access to police misconduct records. It is supported by a wide range of individuals and organizations from the law enforcement, good government, and civil rights communities.

Take Action!

• Urge your local Assemblymember to Restore Civilian Oversight to Police Agencies and Support SB 1019

• Request a police transparency speaker for your group's event!

• Join your local ACLU Chapter!