Georgia lawmakers are looking for ways to address what some are calling “a hiring crisis with regard to law enforcement officers” across the state. Monday, Secretary of the Senate Majority Caucus, Sen. Larry Walker, R-Perry, introduced the “Back the Blue Act,” – legislation that he says will address this crisis.
Senate Bill 110 would provide financial support for Georgia’s sheriff’s departments by establishing a voluntary “check off” on auto insurance premium invoices to allow Georgians to conveniently donate $3 to local law enforcement. According to Walker, these donations would be collected by insurance companies, then remitted to the Georgia Department of Insurance. The Insurance Commissioner would then distribute the donations equally to the Sheriff of each county in Georgia.
“Georgia’s sheriffs throughout the state work tirelessly every day to protect the citizens of their communities,” said Walker. “Because of this, we should all want to help make sure each sheriff’s department is properly funded and, with this legislation, civic minded citizens can contribute to safer communities and show their support and appreciation of our sheriff’s departments. I look forward to working with all stakeholders to advance this bill through the legislative process.”
According to the bill, “Evidence shows that supplementing pay and enhancing benefits improve the retention of experienced law enforcement officers” It goes on to state that “Retaining experienced law enforcement officers means fewer hiring and training expenses for law enforcement agencies; and hiring and retaining experienced law enforcement officers increases public safety, builds stronger communities, and restores trust and goodwill between communities and law enforcement officers.”
SB 110 has been assigned to the Senate Committee on Insurance and Labor, but no hearing had been scheduled by late Monday.
The bill has the full support of Lt. Gov. Burt Jones, who said, “Thank you Senator Walker for sponsoring this critical piece of legislation which gives Georgia citizens the opportunity to show their support for law enforcement officials. It is critical that we give law enforcement the tools and resources they need to protect Georgia communities. My support for our brave men and women in blue will not waiver and I am forever grateful for all they do to keep our state, families and communities safe.”
