"DeSantis Restricts Civilian Oversight of Police and Proximity to First Responders"

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis signed bills limiting the authority of police civilian review boards and creating a 25-foot buffer around police officers, firefighters, and emergency personnel. The bills restrict civilian review boards to an advisory role and criminalize approaching within 25 feet of officers during investigations. Supporters argue that the measures create a better environment for law enforcement, while critics argue that civilian review boards provide independent accountability and build community trust. The bills have drawn criticism for potentially infringing on First Amendment rights and creating vague and discretionary language.