HB 727 Summary

• Creates a 15-member Special Review Commission appointed by the Department of Law Enforcement executive director, with 4-year terms and at least 5 non-law enforcement members; sitting judges and legislators are ineligible.

• Requires law enforcement agencies to report lethal use-of-force incidents to the commission within 24 hours and provide investigation results within 7 days; state attorneys must notify the commission within 2 days of beginning inquiries and within 2 days of deciding not to pursue charges.

• Authorizes the commission to review incidents where no charges are pursued and refer cases to the Attorney General if the use of force appears unlawful, with referrals requiring a majority vote; the commission may subpoena documents and testimony.

• Permits the Attorney General to bring criminal charges against law enforcement officers following a commission referral for violation of law.

• Prohibits referrals for persons acquitted at trial for the same incident and prevents actions that would constitute double jeopardy under state or federal constitutions.

• Effective date: July 1, 2016.