Democrats have organized some policy as a response to the longstanding battle against police brutality and racial injustice.
The Justice In Policing Act of 2020 addresses some of the injustices that have plagued our communities for decades. “While there is no single policy prescription that will erase the decades of systemic racism and excessive policing – it’s time we create structural change with meaningful reforms,” Congressional Black Caucus Chair. Karen Bass, D-Calif., House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jerry Nadler, D-N.Y., and Sens. Cory Booker, D-N.J., and Kamala Harris, D-Calif., share in the “Dear Colleague” letter Friday evening.
Key points from the bill address:
- Limits qualified immunity protections
- Creates national police misconduct registry
- Bans the use of choke holds
- Restricts the transfer of military grade equipment to police departments
- Makes lynching a federal crime
The bill also makes it easier to prosecute officers for misconduct. As you know, it has been very difficult in the past to get convictions for some officers who actually deserved jail time. The Justice In Policing Act of 2020 also has other provisions and details that will surface tomorrow.
It’s hard to forecast how the bill will be received by Republicans but as ABC News suggests, law enforcement officials will certainly be opposed. Sen. Judiciary Committee Chairman Lindsay Graham (R-SC) is expected to hold hearings on policing reform soon.
A great start.
In my Op-Ed last week, I suggested that our focus should be on curating legislation to truly protect the black community. This is certainly a good step towards that direction.
Believe it or not, both sides of the aisle can finally agree on something: police brutality and disgraceful policing is disgusting. I sincerely hope that the fight against police brutality can remain non-partisan and that both sides are able to come together to sign some policy.
Even if the Justice In Policing Act of 2020 isn’t the answer, hopefully both sides can continue to find that answer and end police misconduct. Well, at least create a system that holds law enforcement accountable.
Considering that this bill controls the funding of police across the country, hopefully the money talks. What are your thoughts? Get at me on IG: @BriansWorldLive
