HARRISBURG – Legislation sponsored by Sen. Devlin Robinson (R-37) that would authorize state parole agents to wear body cameras was approved today by the Senate.
Senate Bill 260 would allow state parole agents of the Pennsylvania Department of Corrections to wear body cameras capable of capturing encounters with parolees. Under current law, state parole agents are not authorized to wear body cameras due to the Wiretap Act’s antiquated language. Other members of law enforcement including deputy sheriffs, municipal police officers and members of the Pennsylvania State Police are authorized.
“During last year’s budget hearings, we learned that agents are not permitted to use body cameras because of an outdated law. However, representatives from the Pennsylvania Parole Board expressed how helpful it would be in carrying out their responsibilities and duties for the job,” Robinson said. “I am grateful to my Senate colleagues for passing this bipartisan legislation for state parole agents to provide transparency and improve overall safety for both agents and parolees.”
The bill now moves to the House of Representatives for consideration.
CONTACT:
Allison Dutrey