JEFFERSON CITY — Today, Sen. Doug Libla (R-Poplar Bluff) announced he will file legislation on Dec. 1 enhancing penalties for those who are convicted of attacking law enforcement officers and first responders.
“Our law enforcement officers need to know that members of the Missouri General Assembly have their back,” said Sen. Libla. “As chairman of the Senate Transportation, Infrastructure and Public Safety Committee, I will keep this important issue at the forefront of the committee and Missouri Senate’s agenda this upcoming legislative session.”
Under current law, Missouri statute outlines the penalties for crimes and allows for enhanced penalties on special victims, which definition includes law enforcement officers and first responders. Senator Libla’s legislation will further increase the penalties for specifically attacking law enforcement officers and first responders.
“I am amazed and dismayed at the level of disrespect being shown to the brave men and women who have chosen to serve and protect us. For simply wearing the uniform our heroes are being targeted and attacked. This has to stop,” declared Sen. Libla.
Senator Libla was re-elected to a second term in the Missouri Senate earlier this month. He proudly serves the counties of Butler, Carter, Dunklin, Mississippi, New Madrid, Pemiscot, Shannon and Stoddard. For the last two years, he has served as chairman of Senate Transportation, Infrastructure, and Public Safety Committee.