House committee re-refers GOP public-safety package after debate over tracking, transparency

The House Judiciary Finance and Civil Law Committee voted 7-6 on Feb. 18 to re-refer House File 7, a 12-provision public-safety package sponsored by House Republicans, to the Committee on Public Safety and Policy for further consideration. Representative Novotny moved the measure as amended; the committee chair conducted a roll call that produced seven ayes and six nays.

House File 7, described by Representative Novotny as representing "the priorities of the House Republican caucus in the public safety area," packages provisions to increase penalties for several offenses, expand law-enforcement authority to place tracking devices on vehicles under limited circumstances, require public reporting about case dismissals and sentencing reductions, and increase penalties for assaulting peace officers and blocking critical public access.

Supporters said the bill targets a small cohort of repeat offenders and tools that can reduce dangerous vehicle pursuits. Bob Fletcher, Ramsey County sheriff, told the committee that tracking stolen vehicles helps police choose safer intervention points and avoid high-speed chases: "Unless you…