When people think everyone is watching, they act differently. That’s why wearable cameras on police could help protect law enforcement and the public.

Some argue Oregon law should be changed to make it clear that police can wear them. Currently, the law requires police to notify people if they are being recorded.

It makes sense to change the law. But before Oregon takes the step of requiring cameras for all departments, the state should run pilot programs or at least intensely analyze how cameras have worked elsewhere.

Cameras could reduce the use of force. They could lead to more polite interactions between police and the public. The demeanor of both police and suspects may shift. The cameras also create a record of events that can help clarify what did and did not happen.

But technology doesn’t solve everything. Police may be more inclined to strictly follow procedures and use less discretion, knowing every interaction could be reviewed. That’s not always a good thing. For instance, if they pull somebody over, they may be more inclined to always write a ticket.

The cost of the cameras has become more reasonable, but they are still several hundred dollars a piece. That doesn’t include maintenance and replacement. And it doesn’t address the storage of all the data. What will the real long-term costs be for departments?

It also raises new questions about when and how long the data should be stored. Who can see it? When are police allowed to turn the cameras off? What if they are interviewing a victim of abuse? An informant?

On balance, we think cameras could help. What will always matter more is the quality and training of the people in the police department.