2023 Legislative Update  
By Ray Hill 
Professor Emeritus, Santa Rosa Junior College  

Lawmakers have introduced several bills in this year’s legislative session that could have an impact on day-to-day law enforcement operations. With advocacy from the California Police Chiefs Association, the California State Sheriffs’ Association, the California District Attorneys Association and other law enforcement partners, these bills discussed below were stalled for this legislative session or modified in moving forward.  

Here is an update on what has happened recently in Sacramento:  

AB 742 (Failed) – This bill would have restricted the use of police dogs to make an arrest or apprehension unless there is an imminent threat of death or serious bodily injury. Dogs could still be used in situations involving search and rescue or detection of drugs or explosives. A Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department report opposing the bill stated that such a law would “severely restrict an officer’s ability to employ a proven, effective and less-lethal option that can deescalate other potentially life-threatening situations.” The bill fell several votes short of approval.  

Conclusion: Continue to follow your “legally vetted” use-of-force policies for deployment of police ....