LANSING, MI (WKZO AM/FM) — Governor Gretchen Whitmer is proposing a number of police reform polices to help strengthen police-community relations and keep all Michiganders safe.
On Monday the governor unveiled a series of proposals including her support for a ban on the use of chokeholds by law enforcement officers as well as additional training and oversight regarding the use of force.
The list of reforms is as follows:
- Ban chokeholds/windpipe blockage.
- Further limit the use of no-knock warrants.
- Require “duty to intervene” policies.
- Classify false, racially-motivated 911 calls as a hate crime.
- Require in-service training for all licensed law enforcement officers to maintain licensure.
- Authorize MCOLES to do the following: Audit law enforcement agencies to ensure they are accurately reporting violations of law or improper use of force. Establish penalties for agencies who don’t comply with reporting.
- Direct the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services Mental Health Diversion Council to make recommendations on best practices and training for police departments when responding to situations involving persons with mental illnesses.
The governor is also asking for reforms to require independent investigations of all shootings and use of force that resulted in the death of unarmed civilians at the hands of law enforcement.
In a written statement, Governor Whitmer said, “All Michiganders, no matter their community or the color of their skin, deserve equal treatment under the law. This proposal will help us ensure that law enforcement officials treat all Michiganders with humanity and respect, and will help us keep our communities safe. I will continue working with leaders in law enforcement to make public safety more just and equitable in Michigan.”
Lieutenant Governor Garlin Gilchrist also released a statement saying, “People across Michigan have been calling for changes to police practices, and these actions are clear steps in the direction of needed reform. These reforms will help us build a more just and equitable law enforcement system and ensure the safety of Black Michiganders across the state.”
