“Blue Lives Matter” bill introduced in Wisconsin

Legislation would enhance punishment
against police as hate crimes

A bill called “Blue Lives Matter” introduced by a Wisconsin legislator Monday is supposed to make a statement.

Green Bay Republican state rep. David Steffen doesn’t have a problem with the label of his proposed legislation.

The bill is meant to protect law enforcement in the wake of the Dallas shootings by calling for a hate-crime enhancement against anyone who targets a police officer during incidents like the Dallas shootings. The measure would also apply to other first responders.

“So every district attorney and judge in the state of Wisconsin will have the opportunity to apply a hate crime escalator in terms of the punishment if that is appropriate for the crime,” Steffen said.

He’s been working on the bill a few weeks, he said, but felt the timing was right to introduce it now. 

Louisiana became the first state earlier this year to pass similar legislation. At least nine other states – and at the federal level – have similar proposals. 

This bill is a clear and significant step forward in showing our appreciation, support and, above all, protection for the men and women who serve and protect our communities every single day,” Steffen said.

Critics of these bills say these professions don’t meet hate-crime criteria, like a victim’s race, religion or disability.