SACRAMENTO – Senate Bill 230, by Senator Anna Caballero (D-Salinas) unanimously passed the state Senate on a 38-0 vote. SB 230 is a comprehensive measure that would require every law enforcement officer to be trained in techniques to reduce the need for deadly force. The bill will ensure California leads the nation in regards to departmental use of force policies, ensures robust officer training, and reaffirms a commitment to protecting the sanctity of life.

“We heard loud and clear that there was a need to modernize the use of force law and training standards.  This bill would place California at the forefront with legislation that fundamentally changes the culture in many departments, and will protect both the public and police officers as they do their duties,” said Caballero.

SB 230 will build on California’s rigorous officer training requirements by establishing a minimum standard on the use of force for all law enforcement agencies throughout the state. This bill requires new evidence-based policies and procedures for utilizing de-escalation techniques, implicit and explicit bias and cultural competency training, reasonable alternatives to deadly force, interacting with vulnerable populations, and a new duty for officers to intercede and report if the witness the use of excessive force.

“SB 230 makes fundamental changes to how law enforcement officers interact with the public and the tactics that they use to get cooperation. This culture shift will pave the way to restoring the public trust and mutual respect that is so desperately needed,” stated Caballero. “I would like to thank Assemblymember Weber, Pro Tem Atkins, Speaker Rendon, and Governor Newsom for their help and assistance in crafting solutions.” 

Senator Anna M. Caballero represents the 12th Senate District, composed of Merced and San Benito Counties, the Salinas Valley, and portions of Fresno, Madera, and Stanislaus Counties.