House Co-Sponsorship Memoranda

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House of Representatives
Session of 2019 - 2020 Regular Session

MEMORANDUM

Posted:	July 29, 2020 10:40 AM
From:	Representative Donna Bullock and Rep. Brian Sims
To:	All House members
Subject:	Law Enforcement Badge Visibility

In the protests following the tragic and unjust killing of George Floyd by the Minneapolis Police, it was noticed by protesters across the country that various police officers were covering their badges, which usually consist of an officer’s nameplate or badge number, with tape or bands. Without this identifying information, protesters who have been subject to excessive use of force by law enforcement are left with few options to hold the offending officers accountable.      In Pennsylvania, there is no law that requires law enforcement officers to disclose their identity or have their badge in plain view, regardless of whether an officer is in uniform or not. In light of recent events, it is more important than ever for Pennsylvanians to be able to identify officers engaged in unethical or illegal behavior. These officers are public servants of this Commonwealth and should not be able to escape accountability. This is why I am introducing legislation that would require law enforcement officers statewide to have their badge, with pertinent identifiable information, visible at all times without exception.   Please join me in co-sponsoring this important legislation that would provide transparency and trust for the residents of our state.

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