Walz supported non-policing options during defund movement.
Amidst the aftermath of violent riots in Minneapolis following the death of George Floyd and the rise of the “defund the police” movement, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz has taken a bold step by endorsing a package of progressive police reforms that includes innovative “alternatives to policing.”
During a press conference on June 11, 2020, Governor Walz emphasized the urgent need for real change in response to the demands of Minnesotans. He stood alongside House and Senate leaders as well as the People of Color and Indigenous (POCI) Caucus, declaring his commitment to making meaningful changes to the state’s law enforcement system a legislative priority.
The proposed police reform package presented by the POCI Caucus and endorsed by Governor Walz showcased a comprehensive approach to addressing various aspects of police policy, training, and discipline to enhance public safety and foster better relations between law enforcement officers and the communities they serve.
One of the key components of the reform package was the establishment of an Office of Community-Led Public Safety Coordination, designed to champion and oversee alternatives to traditional policing models. This office would allocate funds for initiatives such as “healing circles” aimed at promoting wellness and social justice in black, indigenous, and communities of color in Minnesota.
Following a pledge by the Minneapolis City Council to disband its police force, Governor Walz voiced his support for the proposed legislative reforms, emphasizing the need for transformative changes in policing practices. While the final version of the Minnesota Police Accountability Act, signed into law by Governor Walz, did not include the creation of the Office of Community-Led Public Safety Coordination, it represented a significant milestone in the ongoing push for police reform.
Governor Walz hailed the bipartisan legislation as a crucial first step towards accountability and justice in policing, acknowledging the tireless advocacy of communities of color in shaping the reforms. He commended the leadership of the POCI Caucus and pledged to continue working with them to further enhance and expand the scope of police reform efforts in the state.
It is clear that Governor Tim Walz is dedicated to fostering a more equitable and just law enforcement system in Minnesota, guided by the principles of community empowerment, racial equity, and social justice. As the state continues its journey towards comprehensive police reform, Governor Walz remains committed to listening to the voices of the community, advocating for meaningful change, and building a safer and more inclusive future for all Minnesotans.
