Protecting Civil Rights and Civil Liberties

“In fighting terrorism to defend our freedom and way of life, we must not destroy those very essential liberties in the process. All of us at the California Office of Homeland Security are dedicated to that proposition. We are honored and privileged to serve you in making California a better place to live, work and prosper.”

- Matthew R. Bettenhausen, Director

Read the entire Civil Rights Letter from Director Bettenhausen.

 

State Terrorism Threat Assessment Advisory Group
 
To further its commitment to civil liberties, OHS reached out to a select group of advisors to review OHS information sharing and threat assessment policies and procedures, and provide independent feedback on this structure as it relates to the protection of civil liberties.  This group is referred to as the State Terrorism Threat Assessment Advisory Group (STTAAG).  This independent and informed group of experts also serves as a conduit for communication between the citizenry and those responsible for their security about the balance being struck between liberty and security and advises OHS on other appropriate and effective means to engage Californians in a meaningful discussion about the measures being taken to protect them from acts of terrorism while respecting their civil liberties.

• STTAAG Charter (doc)

Federal and State laws and policies related to information sharing

National Strategy for Information Sharing (pdf) Criminal Intelligence Systems Operating Policies - 28 CFR Part 23 (pdf) 1993 Revision Commentary to 28 CFR Part 23 (pdf)

1998 Policy Clarification to 28 CFR Part 23 (pdf) California Attorney General's Criminal Intelligence File Guidelines (pdf) Governor's Executive Order Establishing the Office of Homeland Security (pdf)

Training links and materials

We are also pleased to provide links to videos developed by the United States Department of Justice Community Relations Service. Both videos provide invaluable information for first responders and all members of our community which is designed to elevate our awareness of, appreciation for, and sensitivity to the cultural and religions practices associated with Sikhism and Muslims.

• http://www.usdoj.gov/crs/

* Please contact our General Counsel if you have any questions or concerns regarding civil rights or civil liberties issues arising from policies or activities of the Office of Homeland Security.