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House debate spotlights DNR body‑worn camera rollout and whether statute should enshrine use
Summary
Lawmakers heard supporters call for a statutory requirement that DNR conservation officers wear body‑worn cameras; the DNR said it has already rolled out a statewide program but warned the proposed language is unfunded and risks singling out one agency.
Representative Markkanen urged the House Natural Resources, Environment, Tourism and Outdoor Recreation Committee to require body‑worn cameras for Department of Natural Resources conservation officers, saying cameras “enhance transparency,” “promote accountability” and improve safety. Markkanen said enshrining a requirement into law would prevent a future director from reversing the practice.
Chief Jason Haines, head of the DNR law enforcement division, described a multi‑year rollout the department has been executing. Haines said the DNR began work on body‑worn cameras in early 2019, piloted in 2021, paused while legislation was pending, secured funding in fiscal…
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