On Friday, legislation to rename a section of state Highway 95 after fallen corrections officer Joseph Gomm was signed into law by Governor Tim Walz. The bill, authored by Senator Karin Housley (R-St. Marys Point), previously passed the House and the Senate with unanimous support.

“The state of Minnesota mourns the loss of Officer Joseph Gomm. His legacy of sacrifice must not be forgotten,” said Senator Housley. “Officer Gomm paid the ultimate sacrifice, sacrificing his life in the line of duty to keep us safe. This is a small token of this community’s appreciation. Officer Gomm is remembered as a dedicated public servant, devoted friend, and trusted colleague. Our communities are safer because of Officer Gomm’s sacrifice – and we must never forget it.” 

On July 18, 2018, Officer Joseph Gomm was killed in an on-duty attack at the Minnesota Correctional Facility–Stillwater. The bill officially names a portion of state Highway 95, running from Interstate 94 in Lakeland to state Highway 36 in Oak Park Heights, as ‘Corrections Officer Joseph Gomm Memorial Highway’. New signage will be erected along the route, which stretches through West Lakeland Township, Bayport, and Oak Park Heights. The change will take effect on August 1.

Officer Gomm is survived by his mother, Gloria Gomm; his brothers, Ken (Mary) Shuey, Norman Gomm Jr., and Anthony Gomme; his sisters, Angela (George) Wood and Audrey (Chris) Cone; and several aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Senator Karin Housley, of St. Marys Point, represents the Forest Lake area and the St. Croix River Valley in the Minnesota Senate. Senator Housley is chairwoman of the Family Care and Aging Committee and is an assistant majority leader.