This week, Assemblymember Mike A. Gipson (D-Carson), Chair of the Assembly Select Committee on Police Reform, held a hearing regarding the Peace Officer Bill of Rights (POBR). The discussion included experts in academia, a civil rights attorney whose firm represents families of George Floyd and Breonna Taylor, counsel of rank and file officers, as well as police chiefs.
Over the last year and a half, the select committee has held a series of hearings to closely examine California’s public safety practices and set forth a forward-looking framework for what our communities need from law enforcement agencies. Thus far, the committee has learned about the history of police reform efforts in California, how to improve recruiting and training, explored the right balance on police accountability, and heard from victims of police brutality. These discussions contributed to the development and passage of a multitude of historic police reform legislation, with more work to come.
“The intent of today’s hearing was to get a better understanding on the fundamentals of the Peace Officer Bill of Rights, to continue the committee’s mission in analyzing every layer of police accountability, especially when it refers to misconduct, said Assemblymember Mike A. Gipson (D-Carson). “As Chair of the Select Committee on Police Reform, it is critical that we as a body continue to have these conversations to bring tangible solutions through legislation that will positively affect public trust and public safety. We have already made tremendous strides but remain committed to continuing this vital work until justice is assured for all.”
“We heard how crucial it is to ensure we achieve police reform and accountability. While the Peace Officer Bill of Rights is not the only aspect of our criminal justice system, it is important that we review and reflect upon it to ensure that new policies and changes to culture truly create justice for all communities across the state,” said Assemblymember Eloise Reyes (D-San Bernardino). “For our state residents who have suffered due to a lack of police accountability, we owe it to you to consider how to make equitable changes in our criminal justice system. I am eager to continue this conversation with both law enforcement officials and social justice advocates alike. This hearing is another step towards a path of justice.”
“It’s an honor to be part of the Assembly Select Committee on Police Reform,” said Assemblymember Kevin McCarty (D-Sacramento). “This committee continues to put a spotlight on police officer misconduct issues because while it affects all Californians, we know that the inequities fall mainly on our Black and Brown communities. I’m eager to work with Committee Chair Assemblymember Mike Gipson on how we can better hold law enforcement accountable.”
