House members, senators near compromise on body camera bill

By JEFFREY COLLINS
Associated Press

COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) – A group of senators and representatives appear poised to reach a compromise on a bill promoting police body cameras.

The three senators on a conference committee said Wednesday they would talk to senators about accepting the House proposal to take a year to have law enforcement, defense lawyers and others study the issue and create guidelines. The Senate proposed a six month study.

Republican Rep. Tommy Pope of York says the extra time gives lawmakers a chance to find more money for body cameras.

House members told senators they would be willing to drop their language safeguarding cases where a body camera malfunctions because it isn’t necessary.

The committee hopes Thursday to send the bill back to the whole House and Senate to be considered at a special session.

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