Waterford Today

State Representatives Mike Harris and Alabas Farhat have introduced a bipartisan initiative aimed at increasing funding for local law enforcement in Michigan. The proposal seeks to allocate essential resources to enhance public safety and violence prevention, addressing challenges such as officer shortages that hinder crime prevention efforts.

Harris, a former police sergeant, emphasized the bipartisan nature of the plan. "To keep Michigan residents safe in our neighborhoods, law enforcement needs some backup," said Harris, R-Waterford. He highlighted the difficulties faced by officers due to criminal violence and political pressures.

The proposed House Bills 4260 and 4261 would redirect a portion of state sales tax revenues into a new Public Safety and Violence Prevention Fund. This fund is intended to support local law enforcement agencies, particularly in areas with high violent crime rates. Farhat noted the expected annual funding of over $100 million as crucial for combating violent crime.

“This is a national model for keeping neighborhoods safe,” said Farhat, D-Dearborn. He pointed out that the funding will be used for hiring more police officers, enhancing mental health services, and supporting community-based violence intervention groups.

The initiative aims to bolster local public safety through various means including officer recruitment and retention, equipment acquisition, and operational expenses. It stipulates that new funds should supplement existing budgets rather than replace them.

Of an initial $75 million allocation from the fund, 96% would go towards public safety efforts in municipalities based on violent crime rates. The remaining funds would support the Crime Victim’s Rights Fund and grants for public health programs targeting community violence prevention. Additional resources beyond this amount would be directed to county sheriff's offices.

A similar proposal had previously passed both legislative chambers but failed to reach consensus on identical versions before reaching the governor's desk. Currently, HBs 4260 and 4261 have been sent to the House Committee on Government Operations where Harris serves as majority vice chair.