The Senate Judiciary Committee convened on Jan. 14. to discuss Senate Bills 61 and 272.
Senate Bill 61 adds certain crimes that a prosecutor may apply for a wiretap. The bill would add first and second degree murder, first degree robbery, treason and participation in an organized criminal enterprise.
Senate Bill 272 would update code relating to Commission on Special Investigations. The bill would include the following changes:
- Require that the investigative staff is to consist of a director, a deputy director, senior investigators and investigators approved by the co-chairs.
- Would do away with the requirement that Commission expenses must be approved by the Joint Committee as it is redundant given the makeup of the Commission.
- Would allow the commission to request rather than subpoena records for state, county, and local government entities.
Two new sections would be added and include:
- Making it a felony to impersonate a Commission member or staff. The penalty is the same as for Making a false statement, except for the fine which is up to $5,000.
- Would allow the Commission to award duty weapons to certain retiring members and provides for the disposal for surplus weapons.
The Committee voted unanimously to approve both bills to be reported the full Senate.
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