A bill that would restrict law enforcement’s use of force passed the California State Senate Monday and now heads to the governor’s desk for approval.
If Gov. Gavin Newsom signs AB 392 into law, it would require that officers use deadly force only when there is an imminent threat of death or serious bodily injury to themselves or others.
The bill requires officers to use other resources and techniques, whenever safe and feasible, to address threats instead of using deadly force.
Senators approved the measure Monday on a 34-3 vote. It previously cleared the Assembly 67-0.
The legislation was prompted by public anger over fatal shootings by police, including the killing of unarmed vandalism suspect Stephon Clark in Sacramento last year.
Supporters say that it will impose some of the nation’s most sweeping rules when combined with a related measure on officer training.
