The House Governmental Affairs Committee argued today over a resolution to create a 19-member panel to study policing policies. The legislation referenced the killing of George Floyd as a reason for establishing the study group. Pineville Representative Mike Johnson took issue with that.
“If you are asking me what makes me uncomfortable it is referencing one specific event that happened in Minneapolis, Minnesota, which is not Louisiana,” said Johnson.
But New Orleans Representative Royce Duplessis says the response to Floyd’s killing has been historic, and its the impetus behind a nationwide interest in policing policy.
“This is a watershed moment in this country, in this work,” said Duplessis. “I do not believe that it was improper for it to be noted in the resolution because that is what caused the protests.”
The text of the resolution also mentioned the killing of black men by white police officers and questioned the treatment of minorities by law enforcement. Haughton Representative Dodie Horton called it racist.
“This document, unless it is rewritten, I’ve never been more insulted since I have been elected,” said Horton.
But resolution sponsor Baton Rouge Representative Ted James says people should instead be insulted by ongoing issues of police brutality.
“For those of you who are offended by the words, just look at me and realize how offended we are by the actions,” said James.
The resolution ultimately passed the House Governmental Affairs Committee, but was amended to remove any mention of George Floyd. It moves to the House floor.
A similar measure that looks to create a task force to study police practices around the state is also advancing in the Senate.
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