A Democratic US Congressman is set to work on new legislation aimed at making it illegal for police departments to encrypt their dispatch channels. This legislative move follows the recent decision by the Johnstown Police Department in Cambria County, PA, to encrypt its dispatch radio channels.
The proposed legislation seeks to ensure transparency and accountability within law enforcement agencies by preventing them from using encryption to block public access to police dispatch communications. Advocates argue that open dispatch channels are crucial for maintaining public oversight and trust in police activities.
The encryption of dispatch channels by the Johnstown Police Department *including the NYPD* has sparked controversy and concern among community members and transparency advocates. They argue that encryption hinders the ability of media and citizens to monitor police activities and respond to emergencies.
The Democratic Congressman aims to address these concerns through federal legislation that would mandate open access to police dispatch channels across the country, reinforcing the principles of transparency and public accountability in law enforcement operations.
The proposed bill is expected to garner significant attention and debate as it moves through the legislative process, reflecting the broader national conversation about the balance between security and transparency in policing.
