Waterford Today

State Representative Mike Harris participated in a roundtable discussion with law enforcement and community leaders at the Detroit Public Safety Headquarters on April 7, 2025. During the event, Harris, joined by Rep. Alabas Farhat and Dearborn Police Chief Issa Shahin, emphasized a bipartisan plan aimed at enhancing police work and violence intervention across Michigan.

Harris stated, "Police officers and residents are striving to free their communities from violence. In Detroit, law enforcement and community leaders from all around Southeast Michigan shared how they are addressing violent crime and pleaded for more support. The state of Michigan must have their backs by investing in the Public Safety and Violence Prevention Trust Fund."

Last month, Harris introduced House Bills 4260 and 4261, with Rep. Alabas Farhat supporting the initiative. The proposed legislation seeks to allocate a portion of sales tax revenue, projecting an annual $110 million investment, to a newly established Public Safety and Violence Prevention Trust Fund. This fund aims to distribute significant financial resources to local police departments, victim services, and innovative violence intervention programs.

The event saw participation from House Speaker Matt Hall, Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan, and various law enforcement officials, including Oakland County Sheriff Mike Bouchard and Detroit Police Chief Todd Bettison. The attending officials underscored local efforts to combat violence and advocated for Harris' proposed legislation.

"Detroit Police Chief Todd Bettison discusses his department’s work with Rep. Mike Harris, R-Waterford; House Speaker Matt Hall, R-Richland Township; and Rep. Donni Steele, R-Orion Township," highlighting the collaborative effort in addressing violent crime. The roundtable highlighted the ongoing local efforts and promoted the legislative initiative to create a sustained impact through the proposed trust fund.