Evers signs law Friday to create uniform rules across Wisconsin.

MADISON, WI- Today Governor Evers signed into law Senate Bill 120, which creates a standard Use of Force definition for law enforcement, and provides a penalty if this standard is violated. On this signing, Co-Chair of the Speakers Taskforce on Racial Disparities Representative Shelia Stubbs (D-Madison) released the following statement:

“The Speakers Taskforce on Racial Disparities Subcommittee on Law Enforcement Policies and Standards worked diligently for 7 months to craft real reform. For an extra month I chaired a workgroup of experts in law enforcement, religious leaders, and leaders in the community to create a standard Use of Force definition.”

“It was an honor to lead this effort, and I am proud to announce that real work has led to real results. Through difficult conversations and with diverse perspectives, we were able to find common ground and create a meaningful standard for the use of force. Now this standard is law across the state of Wisconsin.”

“By signing Wisconsin Act 75 into law, Governor Evers has ensured that every law enforcement agency has a standard for use of force. By eliminating discretion and creating uniformity, all agencies will be better able to serve and protect the people of Wisconsin. Our communities deserve accountability and transparency, and this legislation is a great step in the right direction”

“I want to thank my fellow Co-Chair Majority Leader Representative Jim Steineke (R-Kaukauna) for trusting my leadership to create this definition. I also want to thank the Taskforce members that put extra time and extra effort to make a meaningful impact. By staying at the table, you helped make Wisconsin a better place to live and work. In addition, I want to thank leaders on both sides of the aisle for helping move this legislation forward. Without your hard work, none of this would be possible.”