Illinois lawmakers want police in every town and city across the state to wear body cameras. State Rep Jehan Gordon-Booth says they've been working to make that possible for quite a while, but the need has been heightened since the Michael Brown shooting in Ferguson, Missouri.
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State Representative Jehan Gordon-Booth wants all police forces in Illinois to have body cameras or dash cams rolling when they're on duty.
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State Senator Bill Haine says it just makes sense to move in this direction.
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Senator Bill Haine says that could cut out a whole lot of confusion in questionable cases.
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Lawmakers want to create a special fund to help law enforcement agencies buy the cameras. Supporters call it a win-win situation because the cameras will protect the integrity of police officers and keep people safe. The law would require that cameras provide both video and audio of any confrontation. Agencies would be required to turn the footage over to the State's Attorney and those who represent a person depicted in the recording. Lawmakers are hoping to clear the bill when they head back for veto session in November.
