Can states stop military surplus from going to Law Enforcement agencies?

State Lawmakers from several states seek to reduce the flow of military equipment into the hands of law enforcement agencies

Under the 1033 program, surplus Pentagon equipment is available to state and local agencies (including state and local police and others agencies like natural resources departments) free of charge. There’s no federal requirement for state or local approval or oversight of this program.

Now, in the wake of Ferguson, states are considering whether or not this program is fueling the “use of force” issue that was seen there and in several other states. Some are even asking whether the program violates the “Posse Comitatus Act”.

Each state’s bill is slightly different. Some seek for transparency on what is being requested or received by agencies, while others seek to control what types of equipment can be received.

– Will

Read the full article: Here

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