Board refers sheriff's 2024 military equipment use policy back to Rules Committee after members raise safety and oversight concerns

The San Francisco Board of Supervisors voted on Feb. 11 to refer the Sheriff's Office 2024 military equipment use policy and inventory back to the Rules Committee for amendments after supervisors raised concerns about training, deployment and documented harms from chemical agents.

Supervisor Gordon Chen, who offered the motion, said he had worked with the sheriff to propose amendments addressing acquisition and usage guidance for pepperball launchers, including four specific safety points drawn from manufacturer product menus: do not point or discharge at anything not intended to be struck; increasing velocity increases risk of death or injury; never discharge at personal property; and keep projectiles and launchers out of the reach of children.

Supervisor Shamann Walton seconded the motion and described past negative impacts from chemical‑agent testing and training, including reported effects at a site in San Bruno and impacts felt in neighboring San Mateo County schools. Supervisor Jackie Fielder echoed concerns about deployment scope, inventory, and the timing of new acquisitions while the city faces budgetary constraints.

Chief John Ramirez of the Sheriff's Office said the department had no objection to returning the policy to Rules for further review. The board then voted to send the item back to committee; the clerk recorded 11 ayes.

What the motion does - Refers the Sheriff's Office 2024 military equipment use policy and inventory and the request to purchase additional equipment to the Rules Committee for amendment and further review. - Supervisor Chen identified proposed amendments that would codify usage guidance for pepperball launchers consistent with product safety information.

Why it matters The city's military equipment ordinance and state law set criteria for acquisition and use of certain equipment by local law enforcement; referral to committee signals closer scrutiny of proposed purchases and operational policies. Supervisors cited concerns about community impacts from chemical agents, deployment practices, training oversight, and the appropriate scope of equipment for the Sheriff's Office's responsibilities.

Next steps The Rules Committee will consider Chen's proposed amendments and any additional language recommended by supervisors, sheriff's staff, and community stakeholders before the item returns to the full board.