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Committee introduces memorial and tougher penalties measure for attacks on officers
Summary
Representative Ted Hill introduced RS32403, described as a memorial and a measure to increase penalties for attacks on police officers, including fixed-term sentences and higher minimums for murder of an officer; the committee voted to introduce the bill.
Representative Ted Hill (District 14) told the Ways and Means Committee RS32403, called the "Bolter Stall Defendant Defenders Act," is a memorial and a proposed law to increase penalties for attacks on police officers. Hill said the bill involves both a memorial to fallen officers and statutory changes “to provide law a way to protect themselves so they can as they risk their lives every day.”
Hill described the current sentencing framework as variable and said the new law would impose a “fixed term of 15 years to [a] max of life” for certain attacks on officers. On homicide of an officer, Hill said the bill would set a minimum of “not less than 35 years.” He said the goal is to “put the teeth into it” to recognize the risks officers face.
Hill noted the presence of Abby Bolter, the widow of Officer Tobin Bolter, who was in the audience. Several committee members offered comments of support and appreciation for the family. Representative Tanner moved to introduce RS32403; the committee approved the motion by voice vote.
The motion introduced the bill; no final sentencing language was adopted at this introductory hearing.
