Police Chiefs to Seek Temporary Curbs on Body Camera Footage

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) - Some Minnesota police chiefs plan to seek state approval to temporarily restrict access to body camera footage while they make a renewed push for law changes at the Capitol.

Their drive for limits fell short last session as lawmakers grappled with how to regulate the fast-spreading technology. About 30 Minnesota departments have broad or experimental body camera programs, with others weighing them.

Led by Maplewood's Paul Schnell, the chiefs intend to approach Gov. Mark Dayton's administration next month for a ruling that should come by early fall. Schnell says limits are needed to protect privacy of those who come in contact with police.

Government transparency advocates are on guard. They warn sweeping restrictions would weaken the accountability mission of the cameras.