On Tuesday, legislation to rename a section of state Highway 95 after fallen corrections officer Joseph Gomm passed the Minnesota Senate. The bill, authored by Senator Karin Housley (R-St. Marys Point), passed with unanimous support. 

“We mourn the loss of Officer Gomm – and 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.”

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.

“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 should never forget it,” Senator Housley continued. 

The bill was unanimously passed by the House of Representatives and awaits action by Governor Tim Walz.

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.