GOP leaders back $100 million for local policing, vow to limit use to officer hires

Sen. John Braun, leader of the Senate Republican caucus, said Republicans support a bill to send $100,000,000 to local communities to bolster law-enforcement hiring but expressed concern that recent committee amendments broaden spending to peer counselors and behavioral-health professionals.

"This money isn't going to frontline officers where they can make the most difference," Braun said, adding Republicans will try to change the bill in Ways & Means so the funds prioritize officers. He said the effort to move the bill was a first step and that the caucus would continue to push for it in the Senate.

Reporters pressed whether the amended language would leave local jurisdictions free to use the money for non-officer positions. Braun said he expected resistance from Republicans and some Democrats if the money can be used without accountability to put officers on street patrols. A participating Republican added that co-responder programs and counseling services are valuable but should not replace hiring officers under this funding stream.

The leaders stressed any final allocation will be subject to legislative negotiation. They said local voters and elected officials, not the state, ultimately will hold local leaders accountable for spending choices.

The press availability did not include a formal vote; leaders described an intention to pursue statutory or budget language in Ways & Means to narrow permitted uses.

The press availability concluded with Braun reiterating the caucus' top priorities: public safety, affordability and K' 12 funding.