Bill To Expand Los Angeles Airport Police Powers
A new bill seeks to expand the powers of Los Angeles airport police, effectively putting them on the same legal footing as LAPD officers and sheriff's deputies.
Under the current situation, airport officers are prevented from citing minors for offenses such as underage drinking, removing unsafe vehicles from the road or seizing a firearm in a case of domestic violence.
Authorities say the legislation is needed because airport police officers have taken on greater responsibilities since 2001. If approved, the bill would not cost taxpayers anything. The Los Angeles Airport Police Department is funded by landing fees and other fees collected by Los Angeles World Airports.
The bill was passed 62-4 in the Assembly and now moves to the state Senate's public safety committee. A floor vote in the Senate could come in about a month.