Senator Zach Duckworth (R-Lakeville) this week presented two bills focused on funding various public safety efforts. “We need to take a wholistic approach to Public Safety in order to best serve our communities and the state of Minnesota,” explained Sen. Duckworth.

SF-2892 appropriates funding for grants to local law enforcement agencies for body worn cameras. SF-2628 appropriates funds for improvements to the Law Enforcement Center in Dakota County. 

Body cameras currently present a steep cost to law enforcement agencies. Though similar language was passed last year, it only applied to state agencies, whereas this language covers the cost for local agencies. Many local agencies have cited cost as being the main prohibitive factor keeping them from using body cameras. Language in this bill seeks to break the financial barrier by allowing local agencies to apply for grants that cover 50% of the cost, with applicants presenting the additional 50% as a match.

“While the cost may be prohibitive to some of these smaller, local law enforcement agencies, this bill seeks to remedy that situation,” said Duckworth. “The use of body cameras is absolutely critical in protecting our officers and keeping them and the public safe, and we should not allow cost to be the sole barrier against implementing this technology.”  

25% of the Dakota County Law Enforcement Center population includes inmates with health needs that must be addressed while in custody. The second of Duckworth’s bills funds a new addition to the Center, which will support specialized care for these inmates and will ease the burden on the enforcement officers that do not have the space needed to serve inmates with unique physical, mental, or behavioral needs.  

“The Dakota County Law Enforcement Center serves a unique purpose in our community by housing inmates that require special care. Unfortunately, their space has become limited in recent years. This funding will allow them to plan for expanding their space so they can enhance their services. This Center serves Dakota County well, but with proper expansion, it can also serve surrounding communities as well,”stated Duckworth. 

Both bills were heard in the Judiciary Committee on Monday—SF-2892 was laid over, and SF-2628 was passed and referred to the Capital Investment Committee.