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Lawmakers, DNR debate statutory requirement for conservation officer body cameras as agency rolls out program
Summary
The committee heard testimony on proposals to require body‑worn cameras for DNR conservation officers. The DNR described a statewide rollout already underway and raised concerns about statutory language that would mandate cameras without agency flexibility or funding guarantees.
Representative Markkanen introduced a bill to require Michigan Department of Natural Resources conservation officers to wear and activate body‑worn cameras, saying the policy would increase transparency, accountability and safety.
“Body cameras for Michigan's conservation officers are best practice,” Representative Markkanen told the committee, urging statutory language to ensure the practice endures across administrations.
Why it matters: supporters said body‑worn cameras could prevent or resolve disputes between officers and private citizens; DNR leaders said the department already planned and funded a program and cautioned that a narrowly written statute could create operational and fiscal problems.
Chief Jason Haines of the DNR law enforcement division described the department’s program history and rollout. Haines said initial research began in early 2019, a…
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