I agree with many statements made by my Democratic and Republican colleagues that we have an historic opportunity to reform policing, to make it better and more just for all. It's time for the body to rise to the occasion, and I’m hopeful we can.
The subject of qualified immunity is often mentioned in this debate. My view is it is now time to revisit the judicial doctrine of qualified immunity, understanding that individual police officers will be immune from civil liability.
No cop should have to worry about losing their house or their life's work because of making decisions on the job. My goal is to drive police departments and systems throughout the country to adopt the best policing practices when it comes to use of force.
Qualified immunity reform should have as its focus professionalizing police departments, institutionalizing best police practices when it comes to use of force, and protecting constitutional rights of American citizens.
The concept of standard of care has dramatically improved medicine because if a doctor meets the standard of care, they're immune from liability.
Such a concept should be employed, when it comes to police departments. If they're following best police practices, they should be immune from liability. If they fail, they should be accountable.
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