SB 444

This bill requires law enforcement officers, or people acting in coordination with a law enforcement agency, to identify themselves when arresting or detaining an individual. Specifically, the bill requires them to identify themselves as officers or agents and display their name and badge number; to provide authority for the arrest or detention; and to not cover their faces or use another disguise for the purpose of concealing their identity. The bill exempts certain face coverings worn for safety or protection. A person who violates a requirement created in the bill is guilty of a Class D felony. The bill, however, provides that the new felony carries only the $100,000 maximum fine and prohibits the court from imposing a term of imprisonment for the felony.

Because this bill creates a new crime or revises a penalty for an existing crime, the Joint Review Committee on Criminal Penalties may be requested to prepare a report.