Stop Excessive Force in Immigration Act of 2026

Standardized Use of Force: The bill establishes that non-deadly force can only be used when no safe or feasible alternative exists and requires that efforts be made to de-escalate tensions (Section 2(a)(1)). This ensures that force is used only as a last resort.

Protection Against Excessive Force: Personnel have an affirmative duty to intervene to stop others from using excessive force or violating the Constitution (Section 2(a)(5)(A)). This provides a safeguard for individuals during enforcement actions.

Mandatory Medical Aid: Personnel are required to recognize and act upon their duty to request and render medical aid as appropriate (Section 2(a)(5)(C)). This could lead to faster medical attention for those involved in enforcement incidents.

Increased Accountability through Video: The mandate for body-worn and dashboard cameras provides a record of interactions (Section 2(e)(1)). This allows for better oversight of how enforcement personnel behave in the field.

Right to Inspect Footage: Certain individuals, including the subjects of video footage, their legal counsel, or the next of kin of a deceased person, have the right to inspect camera footage (Section 2(e)(5)). This allows people to review evidence related to their own interactions with enforcement.

Enhanced Training: The act requires annual training on topics including de-escalation, Fourth Amendment protections, and the illegality of targeting based on race (Section 2(f)). This ensures personnel are better prepared and informed of legal standards.

Restrictions on Equipment: The bill prohibits the use of certain equipment like flashbangs, rubber bullets, or tear gas unless specific training and approval requirements are met (Section 2(b)). This could limit the tools available to personnel during specific high-risk operations.

Identification Exceptions: Personnel may not have to wear identification if the target is deemed a public safety or national security threat (Section 2(a)(7)(A)(i)). This could result in individuals not knowing the identity or agency of the officers they are interacting with.

Masking Exceptions: Personnel may wear masks or face coverings with written approval if they are maintaining anonymity for covert operations or protecting against environmental hazards (Section s 2(a)(6)). This could make it more difficult for the public to identify enforcement personnel.

Video Footage Deletion: Unless specific criteria are met for longer retention, video footage from body and dashboard cameras will be permanently deleted after one year (Section 2(e)(4)(A)). This could result in the loss of potential evidence if a matter is not brought forward within that timeframe.