Assembly Rejects Proposed Curbs on Cameras in Court

California’s current system of allowing judges to decide whether cameras should be in their courtrooms is just fine, despite the O.J. Simpson trial furor, the state Assembly decided Thursday.

By a 56-7 vote, lawmakers approved a bill that would counter a proposed state Judicial Council policy, to be voted on next month, banning cameras at preliminary hearings.

“In spite of all the concern on the O.J. case, I must remind you it was not the publicity that was the problem; it was the crime that was the problem,” Assemblyman Phil Isenberg (D-Sacramento) said.

Cameras have been allowed in state courtrooms since 1984 under rules written by the Judicial Council. A judge can refuse, limit or terminate televising, photographing or broadcasting court trials or hearings to protect the rights of the parties or the dignity of the proceedings.

Jury selection cannot be broadcast and close-up pictures of jurors are not allowed.