House approves bill authorizing broad task force on criminal gang activity

Representative Lewis presented House Bill 277 as a cross-community effort to address criminal gang activity. He said the task force would "range widely across the spectrum" and include representatives from labor, business and the arts to channel youth energy into constructive programs. Representative Short, who co-sponsored the measure, told colleagues he was under the weather but encouraged support, calling the issue critical for the state.

Representative Ford cautioned that the Legislature was creating too many task forces and suggested existing law enforcement and drug task forces should address gangs. After debate and summation, the House voted; the clerk reported, "House bill number 2 77, having received 69 affirmative votes, 0 negative votes passed this house, shall be before the senate for its further consideration." The bill moves to the Senate for further consideration.