HB 4865 Summary

• Amends Section 14-3 of the Criminal Code of 2012 to add new exemptions to eavesdropping and recording prohibitions, including recordings by audio recording assistive technology devices used for individualized educational programs (IEP) or reasonable accommodations under disability laws.

• Authorizes recording of conversations where a law enforcement officer or their agent is a party with State's Attorney approval, limited to investigations of drug offenses, with restrictions on evidence admissibility and a 24-hour duration limit, expiring January 1, 2015.

• Permits in-car video camera recordings of peace officer interactions during enforcement stops or when emergency lights are activated, with 90-day retention requirements unless part of an arrest or legal proceeding.

• Allows recording of school bus interiors when authorized by school board policy with proper notice to students, parents, and signage, limited to use by school officials and law enforcement for investigations and disciplinary actions.

• Establishes exemptions for law enforcement use of audio and video recording devices during hostage situations, bait car surveillance, and taser deployments, along with recordings of person-to-person conversations under reasonable suspicion of criminal offense.