SPRINGFIELD, Ill. - Pointing out the potentially devastating effects of police officers entering crisis situations without training, state Rep. Mike Smiddy, D-Hillsdale, voted to release funds for critical law enforcement training that are currently available but being blocked by the governor`s budget veto.
"These training programs prepare officers for the most dangerous parts of their jobs and helps keep them and the public as safe as possible," Smiddy said. "It is irresponsible to send officers into crisis situations without the tools to safely diffuse the risks, especially when the funds to help are ready and waiting."
Smiddy voted to advance the funding for training grants to local law enforcement which are financed through statewide traffic ticket fees and would not be funded at the expense of other critical services. When the governor vetoed the budget, his action blocked funding for training programs which include specialized instruction on crisis interventions, information on safe interactions with the public, firearm safety, narcotics detection, interacting with people facing mental health challenges, updates on new laws and other important information. This measure still needs approval by the full House and Senate to be considered by the governor.
"The governor has taken an ideological view that harms middle-class families in Illinois, and now may even jeopardize the lives of officers who keep us safe," Smiddy said. "I find it unacceptable that the money to begin these training sessions is available, and yet not released. We must simply authorize its use and help Illinois officers be as prepared as possible while they protect us."
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