Creates provisions relating to law enforcement agencies
Impact
Should SJR72 be approved, it will have significant implications for state laws concerning law enforcement operations. Specifically, it will require municipalities to comply with minimum policing standards as determined by the Missouri Department of Public Safety, based on data collected through a uniform crime reporting system. Municipalities failing to implement these standards will face financial penalties, including the withholding of state funds, emphasizing the importance of police presence in local governance and community safety.
Summary
Senate Joint Resolution 72 (SJR72) proposes an amendment to the Constitution of Missouri that mandates all political subdivisions to ensure adequate law enforcement presence by providing a sufficient number of commissioned peace officers. The resolution aims to address public safety concerns by establishing a framework for uniform crime reporting and policing in municipalities across the state. If adopted, this amendment will be presented to voters in the next general election or at a special election called by the governor in November 2024.
Contention
Debate around SJR72 may center on its implications for local control versus state mandates. Proponents argue that increasing police presence in crime-ridden areas is essential for protecting citizens and ensuring public safety. However, opponents may raise concerns regarding the enforcement mechanisms, including penalties for non-compliance and the potential overreach of state authority into local governance. The provision allowing the attorney general to seek court intervention could also be contentious, potentially leading to legal challenges regarding the state’s ability to dictate local policing policies.