LANSING (WKZO AM/FM) — The House Law and Judiciary Committee heard testimony on several bills yesterday that would be designed to protect law enforcement personnel and other first responders while on the job.
We reported earlier this week about legislation that would increase the penalties for drivers who strike and injure or kill first responders handling crash scenes and other traffic emergencies.
The Committee also heard testimony on legislation co-sponsored by Oshtemo Republican Brandt Iden that set a two year jail term for anyone who targets or intimidates a first responder
“We are seeing increased incidents in Michigan and across the country where first responders are being attacked while in the course of performing their duties or simply for wearing the uniform,” said Iden. “These are individuals put their lives on the line for us. We need to show these men and women that the state of Michigan has their back.”’
Testifying for the legislation was Oshtemo Fire Chief Mark Barnes and Jed Wild with the Covert Fire Dept. Wild testified that first responders could be endangered by deadly booby traps set up by mass murderers at school shootings and other domestic terrorist situations.
The committee did not take immediate action on the legislation.
