Special session begins Monday; focus on use of force and street violence

The Brillion News

MADISON - State Senate Majority Leader Scott Fitzgerald, R-Juneau, said the legislature will meet beginning Monday, August 31, with plenty on its plate, mostly related to the events that have transpired over the week in Kenosha

“In addition to the series of bills that Governor Evers has asked the legislature to consider,

Senator Van Wanggaard of Racine has released a package of bills aimed at increasing transparency and community involvement into law enforcement. Combined with the newly-created Speaker’s Task Force on the topic, there will be dozens of proposals that the legislature will work through in the coming months," Fitzgerald said.

Wanggaard's package of bills and the Evers legislation both deal with use of force by police.

The Speaker's Task Force is focused on police-community relations and other issues tied to race.

Fitzgerald said he is also concerned about protecing polife, firefighters and EMS personnel.

“I would also like to see legislation developed that creates enhanced penalties for violence perpetrated against police, firefighters, and EMT’s," he said. "The riots in Kenosha and Madison this week further demonstrated that first responders are performing their public service duties at great risk to their personal safety. We look forward to a productive dialogue on how to improve law enforcement standards while at the same time ensuring police officers have the resources they need to keep our communities safe.”