Sen. Dodd: Police Reform Bill Signed by Governor

SACRAMENTO – Gov. Gavin Newsom today signed into law a bill co-authored by Sen. Bill Dodd, D-Napa, that requires the California Attorney General to investigate police killings of unarmed civilians, removing the duty from local officials.

“Across our nation and state today there are far too many fatal police shootings, especially those involving people of color, and they each must receive a fair and impartial review,” Sen. Dodd said. “An independent investigation by the Attorney General is the best way to ensure justice in these cases. I thank Gov. Newsom for signing this into law.”

Senate Bill 1506 requires the state-led investigation in police shootings of unarmed people and would allow local government to request investigations into other killings. It was written by Assemblymember Kevin McCarty, D-Sacramento, and passed the Legislature with overwhelming support.

It is one of several police reform bills offered this year in response to the killing of George Floyd in Minnesota and police shootings across California. Among them is the case of Sean Monterrosa, 22, who was killed by Vallejo police June 2 after the officer said he mistook a hammer the man was carrying for a gun. The shooting sparked protests and calls for an independent investigation.

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Senator Bill Dodd represents the 3rd Senate District, which includes all or portions of Napa, Yolo, Sonoma, Solano, Sacramento and Contra Costa counties. More information on Senator Bill Dodd can be found at www.senate.ca.gov/dodd.