In 2022, Assembly Bill 481 required all California Law Enforcement to declare any equipment categorized as Military Equipment. Furthermore, agencies were required to get permission from their governing bodies to possess and utilize that equipment. The Scotts Valley Police abided by the law and obtained permission to utilize two items on the list. In addition, AB 481 requires all agencies to provide an annual report to their governing body and open to public viewing.
Items deemed to be “military equipment” by AB 481 are used as a component of overall best practices for Law Enforcement throughout the country. These tools have been tested in the field, and are used by officers to enhance citizen safety and officer safety. Loss of these items would jeopardize the welfare of citizens and SVPD officers.
Officers are trained on all department issued equipment before utilizing the equipment in the field. Officers receiving the equipment undergo training on the nomenclature, functionality, and risks associated with the use of the equipment. Furthermore, officers are required to requalify annually.
Officers must comply with mandated training as regulated by Federal, State and Local statutes. Most of the training is managed and administered by the California Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST), which sets minimum training standard for California law enforcement officers.
Additional Information: https://www.scottsvalleypd.com/assembly-bill-481