The Fullerton Police Department has formally requested that the City Council renew its approval of the Military Equipment Use Policy in accordance with California Government Code Section 7071. This request comes as part of a mandated review process established by Assembly Bill 481, which requires law enforcement agencies to comprehensively assess and reaffirm their Military Equipment Policies on an annual basis.

Since the City Council’s initial approval of the Fullerton Military Equipment Policy on April 19, 2022, no new items have been added to the policy in 2024. Notably, the Fullerton Police Department clarifies that it does not possess tactical equipment acquired through the military’s 1033 program. However, the definition of “Military Equipment” under the new laws encompasses various items specifically designed for law enforcement, as well as some public-access tools.

The broad scope of military equipment now includes unmanned aerial or ground vehicles, mine-resistant ambush-protected (MRAP) vehicles, high mobility multipurpose wheeled vehicles (HMMWV), and other armored vehicles. The list extends to specialized firearms, noise-flash diversionary devices, and electroshock devices, among others.

Even though the Fullerton Police Department does not use equipment obtained through military channels, it is still required to follow a Military Equipment Use Policy. This policy mandates oversight and annual evaluations by law enforcement agencies in California. The department is dedicated to meeting these legislative standards and ensuring transparency in its operations.