President Trump’s Executive Order Falls Short When It Comes to the Bold Changes We Need
Washington,
June 16, 2020
President Trump’s Executive Order Falls Short When It Comes to the Bold Changes We Need Today, President Trump signed an executive order in response to the calls for change to policing from communities across the country following the numerous and continuous deaths of Black Americans in police custody. In response, Congresswoman Moore released the following statement: “The public health crisis that is racism demands leadership and bold changes to policing. Unfortunately, the proposal that President Trump’s unveiled today fails to provide the meaningful change that will usher in more accountability, transparency, and real justice into policing. His executive order lacks any mechanisms to hold police officers accountable for violent, excessive force. Without greater accountability in policing, there will be no lasting change. While the proposal addresses some of the issues covered by the Justice in Policing Act, including my long standing call to increase de-escalation training for police officers and restrictions on the use of chokeholds, it omits notable provisions that would help make a difference in restoring trust and accountability in policing. Our communities have come too far for half measures. Our country deserves better. Americans are hurting, tired, and crying out for change. In contrast, the Justice in Policing Act (H.R. 7120) would fully ban chokeholds, bar racial profiling, require training on discriminatory profiling, ban no-knock warrants, help de-militarize the police, and will ensure that police officers can be held accountable for misconduct. While I am disappointed in President Trump’s failure to use this opportunity to lead in effecting real change in policing, I endorse the call in this executive order for the Administration to work with Congress to develop new legislation “to enhance the tools and resources available to improve law enforcement practices and build community engagement.” House Democrats believe the Justice in Policing Act is that legislation and I hope the Administration will work with us to help build a safer, and more just America for all.” |
