SACRAMENTO, CA — Assemblymember Dr. LaShae Sharp-Collins (D- San Diego) first-inthe-nation legislation to prohibit the use, purchase, and possession of electroshock gloves by law enforcement was signed into law by Governor Gavin Newsom — preventing state and local law enforcement officers from using an untested and potentially harmful tool against vulnerable communities.
On September 29th, Governor Newsom signed AB 2760 into law, prohibiting law enforcement in California from using or possessing electroshock gloves through 2030 and barring state and local agencies from using state funds to purchase them. The law also directs the California Department of Justice to study the devices’ safety, effectiveness, and impact on communities and recommend appropriate standards and safeguards to the Legislature.
“California should not wait for a tragedy before we act,” said Dr. Sharp-Collins. “Public safety technology must be proven safe and accountable before it is used not after someone is seriously injured or killed. California has a responsibility to protect the dignity and safety of every person in our communities, and AB 2760 does exactly that. I am grateful to every person who advocated for this timely and decisive action.”
The legislation was introduced in response to growing concerns about the use of electroshock gloves by ICE agents and other law enforcement entities, including concerns about potential adverse health effects, unnecessary pain, and a lack of meaningful oversight. Reports from across the country have raised concerns about the use of these devices against immigrant communities and students, as well as an incident involving the death of a man. Amnesty International has called for governments to “cease use of, decommission and destroy any stockpiles of such prohibited electric shock weapons,” citing concerns that certain electric shock devices can be used as instruments of torture.
AB 2760 ensures California will not allow untested technology to be deployed against Californians without first understanding its risks and establishing appropriate safeguards. California will not stand by when fundamental rights and public safety are at stake. New law enforcement technology must be proven safe, effective, and accountable before it is deployed not after someone is seriously injured or killed.
