Governor Tim Walz today signed into law a police reform package the legislature passed Monday just before finishing its special session. Walz says, “Every single person, every single Minnesotan, deserves to feel safe and protected in their communities. This bi-partisan piece of legislation moves us towards a critical step towards criminal justice reform.” But the governor emphasized “work doesn’t end today” and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan called the legislation a “first step.” It prohibits officers from using chokeholds, they can’t receive paid warrior-style training, and officers must intervene if another officer is using excessive force.
Other measures in the new law: arbitration is handled differently if an officer appeals disciplinary action or termination… police departments cannot require officers live in the community, but *can* give them incentives to relocate… and there’s additional training for officers to better handle situations involving those with mental illness or autism.