Klinker votes against HB 1343, believes policing should be left ot local law enforcement

Today, Jan. 28, Indiana Republicans passed House Bill 1343 with a vote of 67 to 29. This bill includes a provision further authorizing the establishment of a military police force within the Indiana National Guard. The governor will have the authority to send this police force into any part of the state whenever he or she deems necessary, without the consent of the community or its elected officials.

State Rep. Sheila Klinker (D-Lafayette) issued the following statement after voting against the legislation:

“I will always wholeheartedly support the men and women who risk their lives to protect this country. I deeply respect our Indiana National Guardsmen and their dedication to service. 

“However, I do not believe our National Guardsmen should be used as military police officers. That’s a job that is best left to our local law enforcement. Our law enforcement in Tippecanoe County is well-trained, highly respected, and they have shown time and time again that they are able to maintain law and order in our neighborhoods.

“As a supporter of local control, I dislike the exclusive authority this bill gives the governor. A single person shouldn’t have the power to deploy troops into our communities without the request of the mayor, the city council or county officials. This sets a dangerous precedent for our communities.”