ST. PAUL – State Representative Marj Fogelman (R-Fulda) is supporting a series of public safety initiatives that are being sponsored by House Republicans, to show support for law enforcement statewide and prioritize law and order in Minnesota.
“Far too often these days we are seeing legislation that prioritizes the criminals instead of law enforcement,” Fogelman said. “We need to be showing more support for those who put their lives on the line to keep us safe.”
One of the initiatives would allow more flexibility in how public safety aid is used by local governments so they can meet their specific needs. Last session, the legislative majority provided $300 million in one-time aid for law enforcement agencies, but did so with restrictions on how the money could be used. For example, tactical vehicles do not qualify, and neither does something as practical as improving lighting to increase safety. Another bill requires county attorneys to disclose information regarding expert witnesses to peace officers in an officer-involved death incident.
Fogelman also believes action should be taken on House Republican legislation that would increase the penalty for transferring a firearm to an ineligible person, aka, “straw man” purchases. As many are aware, an indictment has been filed against someone who allegedly acted as a straw purchaser of the weapons used in the shooting of three first responders in Burnsville.
To date, Fogelman said the House majority has refused to move the legislation forward.