Vote Smart's Synopsis:

Vote to pass a bill that amends the justifications for use of deadly force by a law enforcement officer.

Highlights:

• Authorizes a law enforcement officer to use deadly force when executing an arrest or preventing an escape from custody if the officer “reasonably believes” that the use of such force is immediately necessary, and the individual to be arrested meets one of the following conditions (Sec. A):
• The individual has committed or attempted to commit a dangerous or violent felony;
• The individual has committed a felony offense involving the infliction or threatened infliction of serious physical injury;
• The individual is attempting to escape by use of a deadly weapon or dangerous instrument; or
• The individual may otherwise endanger the life or inflict serious physical injury to the officer or others unless arrested without delay.

• Requires a law enforcement officer using physical force to be “objectively reasonable” when considering the specific facts and circumstances confronting the officer on the scene, without regard to the officer’s underlying intent or motivation (Sec. A).

Full Bill Text