Governor DeSantis Signs Bill Curtailing Civilian Oversight of Police Misconduct

The new legislation, effective immediately, restricts civilian review boards from investigating police complaints and internal affairs, centralizing control under police chiefs and sheriffs.

Ron DeSantis approved a controversial bill on Friday that diminishes the power of civilian oversight boards in Florida.
The bill mandates that police chiefs and sheriffs appoint members to these boards, which are now limited to reviewing policies rather than specific complaints.
Critics argue the bill undermines transparency and public trust in police oversight, while supporters claim it will ensure fair and unbiased reviews.
Existing civilian boards will no longer handle investigations into police misconduct, affecting 21 jurisdictions across the state.
The legislation also introduces penalties for harassing first responders at crime scenes, categorizing such actions as a second-degree misdemeanor.