Crime in the crosshairs as major Minnesota legislative, campaign focus in 2022
Minnesota legislators returning to the Capitol Monday will accelerate a debate on crime that is already stoking fierce partisan tensions against the backdrop of an election year.
A persistent rise in violence in the Twin Cities metro area and beyond has prompted proposals for new tough-on-crime legislation from Republicans and calls for more money for community policing and restorative justice from Democrats. Both parties identify crime as a top priority this session, but with statewide offices and control of the Capitol up for grabs this November, the topic is fast becoming a platform to lob attacks across the aisle.
"This moment requires new solutions, not old politics," said state Rep. Cedrick Frazier, a New Hope Democrat who is the chief sponsor of the House DFL's $100 million public safety budget proposal this year.
Surging carjackings and homicides have spurred Senate GOP proposals to impose tougher sentencing laws and to prosecute minors as adults in some cases. Republicans also want to open up grant funding to recruit new officers to the profession.
Read more: https://www.startribune.com/crime-in-the-crosshairs-as-major-minnesota-legislative-campaign-focus-in-2022/600140972/