In Illinois, the vast majority of law enforcement officers are mandated to utilize body-worn cameras as a means of gathering evidence and ensuring accountability.
Despite this requirement, multiple legislative proposals this year have sought to restrict the availability of such recordings, as highlighted by a BGA Policy review.
Under the Freedom of Information Act, body camera video is handled distinctively from other public documents.
While most government records are generally accessible unless exempt, body camera footage is typically considered exempt unless it satisfies particular conditions.
The analysis identified six bills that would have further complicated access to these videos.
