by John Haughey, The Center Square contributor | May 24, 2021 05:00 PM Print this article
Missouri lawmakers passed a bill during their recently concluded legislative session that would penalize cities that cut police budgets and bolster protections for officers under investigation for misconduct.
Senate Bill 26, sponsored by Sen. Bill Eigel, R-Weldon Springs, was filed to thwart efforts to defund the police” by diverting funds normally earmarked for law enforcement into hiring social workers to handle domestic violence 911 calls.
The bill, which is on Gov. Mike Parson’s desk awaiting his signature, would go into effect on Aug. 28.
But that would be too late to nix Thursday’s adoption of two ordinances by the Kansas City Council that change, and perhaps “defund,” the Kansas City Police Department (KCPD).
Lawmakers call for special session to stop Kansas City from defunding police msn.com - get the latest breaking news, showbiz & celebrity photos, sport news & rumours, viral videos and top stories from msn.com Daily Mail and Mail on Sunday newspapers.
Missouri Senate adopts COVID-19 liability bill, advances police/protester measure by John Haughey, The Center Square | February 24, 2021 01:00 PM Print this article (Onfokus.com Sebastien Cote/Getty Images/iStock)
The Missouri Senate Tuesday advanced two slates of priority Republican legislation with the adoption of a COVID-19 liability bill and preliminary approval of a measure enhancing protections for police and increasing penalties for unlawful protesters.
The COVID-19 liability bill, Senate Bill 51, sponsored by Sen. Tony Luetkemeyer, R-Parkville, was approved Tuesday in a 20-13 vote, sending it to the House.
SB 26, filed by Sen. Bill Eigel, R-Weldon Springs, which includes a “law enforcement bill of rights” and increased penalties for traffic-blocking, monument-vandalizing protesters was “perfected” after lengthy debate and is ready for a Senate floor vote.