Policing Reform in the United States

THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the NAACP reaffirms its support for adoption of the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act of 2021 and calls for that policing reform to include elements of the NAACP Collaborative Agreement with the National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives and advocate that reform of police agencies include the elements listed below:

Independence. The power to conduct hearings, subpoena witnesses and report findings and recommendations to the public; and

Investigatory Power. The authority to independently investigate incidents and issue findings on complaints; and

Mandatory Police Cooperation. Complete access to police witnesses and documents through legal mandate or subpoena power; and

Adequate Funding. Should not be a lower budget priority than police internal affairs systems; and

Hearings. Essential for solving credibility questions and enhancing public confidence in process; and

Reflect Community Diversity. Board and staff should be broadly representative of the community it serves; and

Policy Recommendations. Civilian oversight can spot problem policies and provide a forum for developing reforms; and

Statistical Analysis. Public statistical reports can detail trends in allegations, and early warning systems can identify officers who are subjects of unusually numerous complaints; and

Separate Offices. Should be housed away from police headquarters to maintain independence and credibility with public; and

Disciplinary Role. Board findings should be considered in determining appropriate disciplinary action