Today, House Democrats unveiled their plan for a $100 million public safety plan. The proposal contains significant funding for community engagement and nonprofits but was noncommittal in providing resources for new officers or strengthening sentencing guidelines.

Senator Paul Gazelka (R-East Gull Lake) issued the following statement:

“The House DFL’s public safety proposal continues a pattern of weak leadership on crime that focuses exclusively on their political priorities rather than working with Minnesota’s law enforcement institutions to protect our communities and provide justice for victims.”

“We know criminals are emboldened when police forces aren’t staffed and properly funded. Yet, the DFL’s proposal does nothing to seriously address the deficiencies already faced by departments in the Twin Cities and across Minnesota. At a time when crime is spiking, this is not something lawmakers can neglect.”

“The proposal also fails to address other shortcomings in our criminal justice system such as weak sentencing or some prosecutors who are deliberately creating a path that allows criminals to return to the streets quickly.”

“These misguided approaches do not clamp down on crime.”

“Over the last several months, I’ve heard these same concerns shared by residents, law enforcement, mayors, and other lawmakers who all agree that our priorities need to change. This session, I am continuing to advocate for increased funding for public safety, more police officers, and a tougher stance on crime that protects law-abiding Minnesotans.”

Earlier this month, Senator Gazelka announced three legislative reforms to combat the rise in crime in Minnesota. The first two would introduce minimum sentencing for carjackings and repeat offenders who commit crimes with a firearm. The third would offer incentives to recruit new officers in areas with high crime.