California Gov. Gavin Newsom signs a law that bans officers in the state from using electric-shock “pain compliance” gloves. The measure prohibits the use of gloves that deliver painful electrical shocks to control or subdue people. The law takes effect next year and remains in place until 2030.
The ban follows federal interest in the devices. Multiple outlets report that U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has moved to equip its agents with similar gloves. In recent weeks, ICE awards a contract worth nearly $17 million to buy about 6,000 pairs, according to the reporting. The gloves are described as functioning like tasers, but operating at lower voltages, with the stated purpose of gaining compliance from individuals.
Across outlets, the focus is on the timing and target of the restriction: California’s statewide ban applies broadly to local, state, and federal law enforcement activity within the state, while federal procurement by ICE is presented as the immediate context for the policy change.
