Iowa Senate passes bill that penalizes cities that "Defund" police

The Iowa Senate is sending a bill to the House that would cut off state funding for any communities who "defund the police".

"This is not the time to cut funding," said Senate Republican Chris Cournoyer. "We must continue to invest in public safety by providing robust law enforcement training that continually evolves to meet the needs of our communities."

Some Democrats argue this move hurts local governments that have to make tough budget decisions in the future.

"You're going to make it harder for local governments to increase police funding with this legislation," said Democrat Nate Boulton. "Without the fear of permanently increasing budgets, and making it impossible for a local government entity to ever step away from that decision."

The bill passed 41-7 in the Senate with 10 Democrats joining Republicans.

Another bill that passed, Senate File 534, contains enhanced penalties for assaulting police officers, as well as crimes tied to protesting like unlawful assembly and criminal mischief.

In SF534, Drivers who injure protesters that are blocking a public street or highway may also be immune from civil liability as long as they were not acting recklessly or willfully.


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