New legislation that took effect Nov. 1 requires audio and video recordings attached to law enforcement or law enforcement vehicles to be made available to the public for inspection and copying.
HB2676, by Rep. Ken Walker and Sen. David Holt, previously exempted the Department of Public Safety (DPS) from releasing any audio or video recordings.
All other law enforcement agencies were subject to the same policy that required the release of information when requested.
The Oklahoma Highway Patrol was exempt, said Holt, as a result of good lobbying not good public policy.
“I’m just a big believer in government transparency and any time I’m presented with the opportunity to push for it, I do so,” said Holt.
Many people in government often don’t support transparency.” Holt stated that the highway patrol stepped up immediately and wanted to be part of the solution.
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