Signed by Governor Gavin Newsom

Vote Smart's Synopsis:

Vote to pass a bill that requires a state prosecutor to investigate officer-involved shootings that result in the death of an unarmed civilian.

Highlights:

• Requires a state prosecutor to investigate incidents of an officer-involved shooting resulting in the death of an unarmed civilian (Sec. 1).

• Defines “unarmed civilian” as anyone not in possession of a deadly weapon, including but not limited to (Sec. 1):

• Any loaded weapon from which a shot, readily capable of producing death or serious physical injury, may be discharged;

• A switchblade knife;

• A dagger; or

• Plastic or Metal knuckles. 

• Specifies that the Attorney General is the state prosecutor unless otherwise specified or named (Sec. 1).

• Authorizes the state prosecutor to investigate and gather facts in an incident involving a shooting by a peace officer that results in the death of an unarmed civilian, prepare and submit a written report, and, if criminal charges against the involved officer are found to be warranted, initiate and prosecute a criminal action against the officer (Sec. 1).

• Requires the written report to include, at minimum, the following information (Sec. 1):

• A statement of the facts;

• A detailed analysis and conclusion for each investigatory issue; and

• Recommendations to modify the policies and practices of the law enforcement agency. 

• Requires the written report, after confidential information has been appropriately redacted, to be posted to a public website (Sec. 1). 

• Requires the Attorney General to operate a Police Practices Division within the Department of Justice to, upon request of a local law enforcement agency, review the use of deadly force policies of that agency and make recommendations, beginning July 1, 2023 (Sec. 1).  

Full Bill Text