Baker: Judiciary Committee Advances Bill Authorizing Body Cameras for County Probation and Parole Officers

HARRISBURG - The Pennsylvania Senate Judiciary Committee today approved legislation to authorize county probation and parole officers to use body-worn cameras, according to committee chair Sen. Lisa Baker (R-20).

House Bill 2299 would include county probation and parole officers among the law enforcement personnel authorized to use body-worn cameras while performing their official duties.

"Last session, the General Assembly expanded the use of body-worn cameras for several categories of law enforcement officers, recognizing the value these devices provide in promoting transparency and officer safety," Baker said. "County probation and parole officers face many of the same risks while carrying out their duties in our communities. This legislation is a logical next step to ensure they have access to the same tools that protect officers, strengthen public confidence and provide an objective record of encounters."

Current law permits many law enforcement officers to use body-worn cameras under the Commonwealth's Wiretap Act but does not extend that authorization to county probation and parole officers. House Bill 2299 updates the statutory definition of "law enforcement officer" to include these officers, allowing them to utilize the technology in the same manner as other law enforcement agencies.

House Bill 2299 now advances to the full Senate for consideration.