Authorities claim L.A. County's latest rule serves to stifle dissenting voices
In a move that has sparked controversy, the Los Angeles County public watchdogs are now required to have their communications reviewed, approved, and coordinated before going public. The policy, enacted on September 11, 2021, has raised concerns among oversight officials and media representatives alike.
The policy, which aims to ensure messaging aligns with County priorities, protects sensitive relationships, and maintains a unified public voice, has been met with fierce opposition. During the Civilian Oversight Commission's meeting on Thursday, Hans Johnson, the commission's chair, called the policy 'reckless,' 'ridiculous,' and 'ludicrous.'
Eric Miller, a member of the Sybil Brand Commission, has expressed concerns that the policy may limit his ability to communicate, including with the media, in his role as a public oversight official. Johnson, the commission's chair, made fiery comments about the policy, stating that it represents one of the most caustic, corrosive, and chilling efforts to squelch the voice of the commission, the office of inspector general, and the Sybil Brand Commission.
Michael Kapp, communications manager for the Executive Office of the Board of Supervisors, drafted the policy and claimed there was no existing communications guidance for commissions and oversight bodies. Kapp stated that adherence is mandatory but the goal is not punishment - it's alignment and support.
Some current and former oversight officials have expressed concerns about the new policy, including what happens if they ignore it and continue to speak out. The persons affected by the new communication policy, who must obtain approval from the executive authority of the Board of Supervisors before communicating with press personnel and the public, are not explicitly named or detailed in the search results provided.
The policy applies to press releases, advisories, public statements, social media content, and direct outreach to the Board of Supervisors or their staff. Peter Eliasberg, chief counsel for the American Civil Liberties Union of Southern California, called the policy 'troubling' and expressed concerns that it may allow the county to restrict oversight officials from speaking out.
The controversy comes amidst a series of high-profile resignations and oustings. Longtime Los Angeles Sheriff Civilian Oversight Commission chair Robert Bonner was ousted this summer. Former commission Chair Sean Kennedy resigned in February after a dispute with county lawyers. California Atty. Gen. Rob Bonta announced this month that his office is suing L.A. County and the Sheriff's Department over a 'humanitarian crisis' contributing to a surge in jail deaths.
As the debate continues, it remains to be seen how this new communication policy will impact the oversight of the Sheriff's Department and the transparency of L.A. County's operations.
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