Bill > HB0339

This bill modifies the existing law regarding body-worn cameras for law enforcement officers by establishing detailed guidelines for their activation, use, and documentation. The bill defines key terms related to healthcare facilities and providers, and outlines specific requirements for officers using body-worn cameras, including verifying equipment functionality, reporting malfunctions, wearing cameras visibly, activating cameras before law enforcement encounters, recording continuously, documenting camera presence in reports, and maintaining camera activation during encounters. The bill allows for limited camera deactivation in specific sensitive situations, such as consulting with supervisors, during periods of inactivity, or when interviewing victims of sexual offenses or domestic violence, provided the officer documents the reason for deactivation. Importantly, the bill stipulates that a violation of these body-worn camera guidelines cannot be the sole basis for dismissing a criminal case, and it allows law enforcement agencies to establish internal policies for non-compliance. The bill also provides exceptions to certain camera usage requirements for officers assigned to narcotics units or engaged in undercover operations. The new law is set to take effect on May 7, 2025, and aims to provide clear, comprehensive guidance for law enforcement body-worn camera usage.

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https://le.utah.gov/~2025/bills/static/HB0339.html