History:

California was the first state to enact a peace officers bill of rights act: California's Act is often referred to as "POBR," "AB301," "Officers Bill of Rights" and similar names. The Public Safety Officers Procedural Bill of Right Act will be referred to as either "POBR" or "the Act." It was effective January 1, 1977. The concept originated around 1974 and involved the LAPD Police Protective League and PORAC. The largest supporter of POBR was the ACLU. The bill was signed into law by Governor Jerry Brown.

Opponents to POBR were CPOA, cities and counties, Cal Chiefs, the State Sheriff's Association and the California League of Cities. Opposition to POBR continues even today; the Act is constantly under attack.

Changes to the Act occurred over the years which have affected its interpretation. Many people know it exists but do not know how important it is. How the Act is applied depends on agency structure and the I.A. process it follows.

The California Supreme Court decided that POBR applies to all employing entities, regardless whether they are charter law or general law cities or counties.

POBR consists of Sections 3300-3311, Chapter 9.7, Division 4, Title 1, of the Government Code. Added in 1976 and amended in 1977, 1978, 1979, 1980, 1982, 1983, 1989, 1990, 1994, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2002, and 2003.