California Governor Signs Law Prohibiting Police Use of Electric Shock Gloves

The bill gained momentum following reports of misuse in several jurisdictions

California Governor Gavin Newsom has signed a new law banning law enforcement officers from using gloves that deliver electric shocks, marking a significant step in police reform efforts within the state. The legislation, passed earlier this year by California lawmakers, prohibits the possession and use of conductive gloves designed to administer painful electric shocks during arrests or detentions. The ban takes effect immediately, aligning with broader initiatives to reduce excessive force and enhance accountability in policing across California. The law targets devices commonly known as stun glovesor conductive gloves,which have been criticized by civil rights advocates for enabling pain compliance without leaving visible marks, thus complicating oversight and investigations. Supporters of the ban argue these tools pose unnecessary risks of abuse and disproportionately affect marginalized communities. During legislative hearings, experts testified that such equipment undermines de-escalation training and increases the likelihood of unjustified force.

The bill gained momentum following reports of misuse in several jurisdictions, prompting calls for clearer restrictions on less-lethal weapons that can still inflict severe pain. How Does This Ban Affect Police Training and Equipment Policies? Under the new statute, police departments must review and update their use-of-force policies to remove any authorization for conductive gloves. Agencies are required to cease procurement and immediately remove existing stock from service. Training programs will need to emphasize alternative methods of control that comply with both state standards and federal civil rights guidelines. Officials from the California Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training confirmed they are developing updated guidance to assist local departments in transitioning to approved defensive tactics.

Some sheriff’s offices have already begun phasing out similar devices ahead of the mandate

Some sheriff’s offices have already begun phasing out similar devices ahead of the mandate. What Are the Broader Implications for Civil Rights Oversight? Civil rights organizations have welcomed the ban as a meaningful advancement in curbing tools that facilitate hidden abuse. Leaders from the ACLU of California noted that eliminating equipment designed to inflict pain without traceable evidence strengthens the ability to investigate misconduct. They emphasized that while this law addresses one specific device, continued scrutiny is necessary on other technologies that may enable similar patterns of abuse. Law enforcement representatives, however, expressed concern that the restriction limits options in volatile situations, though they acknowledged the importance of maintaining public trust. The state plans to monitor compliance through annual reporting requirements and may consider additional measures based on emerging data on use-of-force trends. Frequently Asked Questions What specific devices are banned under this law?

The law prohibits gloves or similar wearable devices that conduct electricity to deliver painful shocks upon contact, commonly referred to as stun gloves or conductive gloves, when used by peace officers in the performance of their duties. Are there exceptions for medical or training scenarios? No, the ban applies broadly to law enforcement use and does not include exemptions for training exercises or medical situations involving officers; the devices must be surrendered and cannot be retained for any official purpose. How will compliance with the ban be enforced? Compliance will be overseen by state regulatory bodies, with departments required to certify that prohibited equipment has been removed from inventory and use; failure to comply may result in penalties or loss of state funding for law enforcement agencies.