In a controversial move, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has signed a bill that strips civilian oversight boards of their power to investigate police misconduct. The bill, known as HB 601, instead allows local police chiefs to create their own "civilian oversight" boards, with members appointed solely by the chief or sheriff. However, these boards will only have the authority to review policies and procedures, excluding the oversight of use-of-force complaints and internal affairs investigations.

During a news conference at the St. Johns County Sheriff's Office, Governor DeSantis defended the new legislation, describing the previous boards as "stacked with activists" and claiming that they conducted extrajudicial investigations against law enforcement. The law now requires that board members be appointed by the Sheriff or Chief of Police, with the aim of preventing individuals with political agendas from serving on these boards.

Opponents argue that the bill effectively bans civilian oversight boards and removes a crucial source of transparency and input for Floridians. Marc Dickerman, the vice chair of the Fort Lauderdale Police Advisory Board, expressed concern that the law could be a "death knell" for similar boards across the state. Currently, Florida has 21 civilian police oversight boards, including advisory boards in Fort Lauderdale, Delray Beach, and West Palm Beach.

Prior to this new legislation, oversight boards like Fort Lauderdale's advisory board played an advisory role and reviewed completed internal affairs investigations. The board would then provide input on the punishment for officers involved based on their review. However, the new law eliminates their ability to make official determinations or recommendations in such cases.

The signing of this bill has received support from law enforcement officials who argue that these boards subject officers to unnecessary scrutiny. Scott Moseley, president of the Fort Lauderdale Police union, expressed gratitude for Governor DeSantis' support and expressed a desire to continue working with the Citizens Police Review Board to enhance law enforcement practices.

In addition to the bill limiting civilian oversight, Governor DeSantis also signed SB 184, which establishes a 25-foot buffer zone to prevent harassment of police officers, firefighters, and emergency personnel while they are on duty. Bystanders who approach within the buffer zone with intent to interfere, harass, or threaten can now be arrested and charged with a misdemeanor.

Critics of the new legislation argue that it undermines efforts to promote trust between residents and law enforcement. The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) of Florida's policy strategist, NR Hines, stated that the bill invalidates the work of local communities in holding law enforcement accountable and that community empowerment is essential for all Floridians.

The new legislation raises concerns about accountability and transparency within law enforcement agencies. Opponents argue that citizen oversight boards play a crucial role in ensuring that officers are held accountable for their actions, while supporters maintain that these boards can often lack the necessary understanding of police procedures and undermine the authority of police chiefs.

The impact of these legislative changes on police-community relations and the oversight of law enforcement misconduct remains to be seen.