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Committee hears bill requiring officers to display name or badge during enforcement
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Summary
HB 367 would require law‑enforcement officers to visibly display agency and either name or badge number when performing enforcement duties, with exemptions mirroring HB 366; supporters said it protects residents and good officers, while law enforcement asked for alignment with operational practices; committee circulated the measure for signatures.
Representative Gorman told the Judiciary Committee HB 367 requires any officer performing enforcement duties in Delaware to visibly display identification showing agency and either name or badge number. The bill includes defined exemptions for protective gear and exigent operational circumstances similar to HB 366.
Supporters argued identification improves accountability, helps victims report misconduct accurately, and protects officers by making clear who is acting with authority. "When everyone is clearly identified, there is less room for misconduct and more room for professionalism," a commenter said.
Law‑enforcement witnesses acknowledged the importance of identification in routine encounters but cautioned about scenarios where visible identification is impractical or could threaten officer safety. Committee members asked clarifying questions about how the exemptions mirror HB 366 and whether the bill would require coordination with tactical and federal partners.
Outcome: members moved to release the bill for signature circulation; sponsors said they will continue to consult with state police and local agencies to align the exemption language with established operational procedures.
