Rep. Brent to introduce resolution in support of the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act of 2021

State Rep. Juanita O. Brent (D-Cleveland) today announced she will soon be introducing a resolution urging the U.S. Congress to pass the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act of 2021.

“Time and time again, accounts of excessive force by police on Black and brown people go without accountability,” said Rep. Brent. 

“As legislators, it is our responsibility to ensure that all Ohioans can live with safety and security. Too many Black and brown Americans, including right here in Ohio, are subjected to the trauma and danger of police brutality.

“The George Floyd Justice in Policing Act is an important and necessary bill that would start to address the systemic racism plaguing our nation. We owe it to George Floyd, Tamir Rice, Sandra Bland, Breonna Taylor, Ma’Khia Bryant, and countless others to change the system and deliver on the promise of liberty and justice for all.”

On May 25, 2020, George Floyd was murdered by police officers when they kneeled on his neck while arresting him for allegedly using a counterfeit $20 bill. This is just one incident of police misconduct that has been witnessed across the country, including here in Ohio. 

The George Floyd Justice in Policing Act of 2021 would address many of the issues surrounding police misconduct. It enhances enforcement mechanisms for violations by law enforcement by lowering the criminal intent standard, limiting qualified immunity, and granting subpoena powers to the Department of Justice. It also limits use of force, establishes a framework to prevent racial profiling, and creates the National Police Misconduct Registry.

The resolution is part of the comprehensive police reform package outlined by Ohio House Democrats that will restore accountability, modernize use of force standards and tackle racial bias in policing.