On May 25, 2020, four police officers killed George Floyd after arresting him for purchasing cigarettes with an allegedly counterfeit bill. After his death, protests for police reform and racial justice took place across the country for more than 100 consecutive days.
What These Protests Have Accomplished
All four officers involved were fired
Derek Chauvin, the officer visible in the video that circulated after Floyd’s death, was charged with second-degree murder, third-degree murder and second-degree manslaughter. (His trial is set to begin on March 8).
Significant police reform policies have been enacted across the country
Floyd’s death also sparked a federal reform bill, called the Justice in Policing Act of 2020, which was introduced in the House of Representatives on June 8 of that year. It initially did not pass through the Senate, but on March 1, the Biden administration voiced its support for the bill, which will come to a vote on Thursday in the House.
"The George Floyd Justice in Policing Act will address systemic racism, curb police brutality and save lives.” - Nancy Pelosi, Speaker of the House
What Would the Bill Do?
Ban all neck restraints and the use of no-knock warrants at the federal level
Create the National Police Misconduct Registry to “compile data on complaints and records of police misconduct”
Prohibit racial profiling for all levels of law enforcement
Require law enforcement agencies and officers to report use-of-force incidents and wear body cameras
Although some reforms are only specifically mandated at the federal level, federal standards would be implemented as thresholds that police departments must meet to qualify for federal aid.
Change Is Still Needed
Human Rights Watch voiced concerns on March 1, urging Congress to reform the bill to divert funds that are currently directed toward law enforcement to community needs instead. The group fears that police departments will simply hire more officers with the funds rather than making substantial changes in their practice and policies.
“While some of the bill’s changes may have some positive impact and should be passed as stand-alone measures or as part of an improved larger package, overall, the bill does not contain the necessary fundamental reforms.” - Human Rights Watch
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