from his position, it fails everyone if a police union interrupts that process. Fortunately, Virginia hasn't had too many "bad cop" stories, largely because public-sector collective bargaining has been prohibited in the Commonwealth. Legislation passed earlier this year opens that Pandora's Box May 1, 2021, and we can't allow this to hinder safe and effective law enforcement. The Law Enforcement Transparency and Accountability bill I've introduced, if passed, will help prevent that.
Please contact the Labor and Commerce Committee urging them to support this common-sense legislation, HB 5071, which they will likely hear Wednesday morning.
And when you see a law enforcement officer, give them a wave and a smile to let them know most of us appreciate them.
Will you stand with me to stop the Democrats' dangerous laws?
Assaults on Police: SB 5032 would remove the mandatory sentence for assaulting a police officer, even when the officer was injured. This means someone can punch a cop, and unless there is an even more serious felony, there is no requirement that the offender serve a jail sentence. In recent weeks, Richmond police have reported being attacked with bricks, batteries, and rocks. I oppose bills like this that will further endanger law enforcement officers. Senate Committee Republicans voted against the bill, but it passed on a party-line vote.
Releasing Violent Offenders Early: SB 5034, by Sen. Boysko who represents part of Loudoun County, would retroactively reduce sentences for thousands of prisoners. While the current version of the bill excludes some serious offenders, it would still allow the early release of others, including (1) Offenders who created or sold child pornography, (2) Offenders who organized or profited from child prostitution, and (3) Offenders convicted of 3rd offense domestic assault or strangulation. I believe that these are dangerous offenders who should serve their entire sentences as imposed by the judge or jury. Again, Senate Committee Republicans voted no, but this measure passed on a party-line vote.
Your financial support will help me stay on the front lines of these battles
I'll keep fighting to ensure that Virginians have every possible opportunity to get the medical care they need, and to open up our economy. Over 1,050,000 Virginians out of a workforce of 4.4 million have filed initial unemployment claims since this crisis began, and all Virginians are suffering under the continued lock-downs and threats of school closures. We have to do better, and with God's help and wise leadership, we can and will.
Sincerely,
