Duckworth Bills Fund Body Cameras and PTSD Support for Law Enforcement in Public Safety Package

The Minnesota Senate today passed a comprehensive public safety bill that provides critical funding to hold criminals accountable and keep Minnesota’s communities safe. This legislation focuses on supporting law enforcement, addressing growing crime rates throughout the state, and increasing transparency and accountability regarding the prosecution of offenders.

Included in the bill is a provision authored by Senator Zach Duckworth (R-Lakeville) that funds grants for local law enforcement agencies to purchase body worn cameras. Many police departments have cited cost as being a prohibitive factor keeping them from purchasing and using body cameras. This bill’s funding will break the financial barrier by allowing law enforcement agencies to apply for grants that cover 50% of the cost with applicants matching the other 50%.

“The use of body cameras is critical for protecting our officers, keeping the public safe, and maintaining transparency and accountability,”said Duckworth.“We need to do what we can to ensure public safety remains a top priority for our communities. This bill not only funds equipment that keeps our officers and communities safe, but it will also focus on holding criminals accountable for their actions.”

During the floor debate, the Senate also accepted an amendment offered by Sen. Duckworth that would entitle a surviving spouse and children to benefits if a first responder were to take their own life as a result of PTSD stemming from their work while on duty.

Other key components of the bill include:

  • One-time bonuses to law enforcement officers to recognize their service to our communities
  • Increase of the number of violent crime enforcement teams in the state
  • Mandatory minimum sentences for dangerous criminals
  • Increase in funding for probation officers, public defenders, and training for prosecutors 

“Families deserve to feel safe and secure in their neighborhoods and we need to combat rising crime in our state. That means supporting our local law enforcement agencies and holding criminals responsible for breaking the law,” finished Duckworth.

The legislation passed the Senate on a vote of 48-19 and now awaits action in the House.