Dale Fowler, Republican candidate for State Senate in District 59 - Southern Illinois, recently called for increased protections for police officers, firefighters and other first responders with his “Blue Lives Matter” legislation proposal in Springfield.
Fowler’s initiative would bring first responders under the umbrella of a protected class under Illinois’ hate crimes law. A change to the current law would protect first responders from being targeted as they answer the call to protect and serve citizens.
"The silence from our elected officials on this issue is deafening," Fowler, the mayor of Harrisburg, said. "This issue will continue to be a top priority of mine and one of the first measures I propose to the Illinois General Assembly."
Protected classes comprise classes of individuals who obtain additional safeguards from being targeted for discrimination. Under Illinois' current hate crime law, protected classes include race, color, creed, religion, ancestry, gender, sexual orientation, physical or mental disability and national origin.
"It takes a special dedication to your fellow citizen to respond to their calls for help," Fowler said. "First responders need to know that citizens appreciate their service and protection and we as their elected officials have their back."
"Blue Lives Matter" proposals have been suggested in other jurisdictions across the country. Earlier this summer, the Louisiana legislature overwhelmingly passed a similar revision to the state's existing hate crime statute; and Chicago’s City Council has been asked to consider a comparable proposal.
"When our police officers and other first responders are being directly targeted, it makes everyone less safe," Fowler said. "We must do everything in our power to support those putting their lives on the line to protect us."
Alerts Sign-up