The Taylorville City Council rejected a proposal that would have permitted the city to sell outdated equipment to their police officers for use in their off-duty security roles.

In the city council meeting on Monday, members debated a proposal that, if passed, would instruct the City Attorney to draft a law allowing the sale of expired tasers and protective gear to officers.

Several council members opposed the idea of selling outdated equipment, expressing concerns that if an officer were injured while using an expired vest or taser, the city could be held accountable. In response, one member proposed including a clause absolving the city of responsibility for any incidents involving the sold equipment.

Those against the proposal argued that such equipment wouldn’t ensure officer safety, and an injury during a secondary assignment would mean one less officer available for the city. Supporters of the motion contended that officers would be using this equipment for their side jobs, emphasizing that it’s up to those employers to provide safe gear for the officers.

The council eventually put the motion to a vote, and it failed 5-2.