Today Senate Republicans rolled out a $65 million C.O.P.S. Program, which stands for “Creating Opportunities in Public Safety.” The proposals focus on recruitment to address the peace officer shortage affecting the entire state. The six different bills help young people get their degree in law enforcement, provide opportunities for nontraditional entrants into policing, and fund a marketing campaign as well as continuing education to highlight the honorable profession and long-term benefits of a career in law enforcement. Senator Justin Eichorn (R-Grand Rapids) is the chief author of one of the bills in the package, participated in the press conference, and released the following statement:

“We need to make sure we have the resources available to get officers on the streets,” Eichorn said. “The Defund the Police movement’s disrespect of our peace officers has led to fewer students pursuing a career in law enforcement. 

Eichorn’s proposal spends $20 million for grants to students across Minnesota who are pursuing degrees in law enforcement at an accredited institution. The grant would be $1,500 per year for up to 2 years for eligible recipients. 

“This proposal makes it possible for a local kid from Grand Rapids or Bemidji to go to school locally, get a 2 year degree, and stay in their community and keep their hometown safe. This is good for Northern Minnesota. This is good for keeping Minnesotans safe.”  

To hear the full C.O.P.S package you can watch the press conference on the Senate Media Services YouTube page.