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Published on January 20, 2025
Indianapolis State Rep. John L. Bartlett Proposes Public Safety Bills Focusing on Accountability and Diversity in IndianaSource: Wikipedia/Bernard Pollack, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

State Rep. John L. Bartlett, a Democrat from Indianapolis, has unveiled a legislative agenda for the year focused on enhancing public safety through a slew of proposed bills that aim to create a safer community and promote transparency, according to a recent announcement from the Indiana House Democrats. Among the proposed legislation, House Bill 1047 stands out for its requirement of immediate drug and alcohol testing for law enforcement officers involved in the use of deadly force, reflecting a move toward accountability in moments of extreme consequence.

The series of bills Bartlett has introduced addresses a variety of concerns; House Bill 1096 seeks to toughen sentences for law enforcement officers convicted of sexual offenses, while House Bill 1416 aims to combat human trafficking by mandating that gas stations display awareness posters another proposed bill, House Bill 1046, is designed to ensure that state educational institutions engage a diverse range of suppliers, and in further efforts to integrate health considerations into public safety, House Bill 1199 would mandate law enforcement agencies collaborate with mental health providers during crises involving mental health or substance use disorders.

"Public safety is always top of mind for me," Bartlett stated, acknowledging the dedication of the majority of law enforcement officers while emphasizing the necessity for stringent repercussions for the few who misuse their power: "House Bill 1047 and House Bill 1096 would ensure that the small number of officers who seek to abuse their power will face harsher penalties for breaking their oath to protect and serve," according to the Indiana House Democrats.

Further detailing his legislative goals, Bartlett also expressed urgency in tackling human trafficking, a pervasive and atrocious crime, as he shared his belief in the collective responsibility toward community safety, with House Bill 1416 representing a proactive step in spreading awareness with such essential visibility at gas stations, "we all play a part in keeping our communities safe, and I'm proud to say my legislation this year is focused on helping to keep Hoosiers and those traveling through our great state safe." he insisted recognizing that these spaces can be critical in the identification and deterrence of trafficking activities, as per the Indiana House Democrats.