Today, Senator Paul Gazelka (R-East Gull Lake) announced three legislative reforms that will introduce minimum sentencing for carjackings and repeat offenders of crimes with a firearm to combat the leniency given to violent offenders who are breaking Minnesota laws.

“Governor Walz and Democrat prosecutors are taking a weak approach on crime that directly undermines Minnesota’s laws and empowers criminals’ to continue their violent behavior across the state,” Senator Gazelka said. “As we saw yesterday, the sentencing guideline committee is not prepared to take action to protect our communities.”

“These misguided ‘criminal-first’ approaches have already shown that they do not work, and law enforcement continues to be undermined in their efforts to stop serious offenders who have plagued our communities with multiple violent offenses. These failed policies need to go, and we must put the focus back on protecting victims and the law-abiding members of our communities.

 “Over the last several months, I’ve heard these sentiments shared by residents, law enforcement, mayors, and other lawmakers who all agree that our priorities need to change. Today, I’m happy to announce two legislative reforms that will introduce minimum sentencing for carjackings and repeat offenders of crimes with a firearm that will send a clear message as to where exactly Minnesota stands on crime.”