To comply with new state requirements for all California law enforcement agencies, the Fairfield Police Department today released a draft procedure for the funding, acquisition, and use of designated “military equipment” such as mobile command posts, certain loudspeakers, armored vehicles, less-lethal tools, and specific types of firearms in accordance with Assembly Bill (AB) 481. All California law enforcement agencies must seek approval of “military equipment” as defined by AB 481 before May 1, 2022.
In addition to publishing the procedure detailing how the department can acquire and use specialized equipment defined by the bill, agencies must also compile an Annual Report each year following the adoption of the policy. The report will include a summary of each type of equipment, its use, costs, quantity, and any complaints and internal audits related to violations of the procedure.
The Fairfield City Council will consider this item at the April 5, 2022, City Council meeting. A complete agenda packet with reports for City Council meetings is available online beginning the Friday before the Tuesday meeting.
For more information, please visit Fairfield Police Department’s Transparency Portal, and click on AB 481.
