For Immediate Release July 9, 2019
For Further Information, Contact:
Sean Marschke 262-886-7229
In Wisconsin “We Back the Badge” AND the Families of Law Enforcement
Madison… Wisconsin has lost 5 police officers in just over a year. The most recent being Officer John Hetland who lost his life when he stepped in to try to stop an armed robbery.
Senate Bill 266 and Assembly Bill 300 would provide insurance for the spouse and minor children of officers killed in the line of duty. Historically, Wisconsin has had two officers killed in the line of duty annually. Nationally, 168 officers gave their lives in the line of duty last year.
Sean Marschke, Sturtevant Police Chief and President of the Wisconsin Chiefs of Police Association (WCPA) stated, “The Wisconsin Chiefs of Police want to thank Assembly Speaker Vos, Senate Majority Leader Fitzgerald, Senate Minority Leader Shilling and Assembly Minority Leader Hintz, as well as all of the authors and sponsors of the legislation for their commitment to law enforcement.”
Marschke went on to say, “Currently, there are 90 of the 132 legislators (99 State Assembly 33 State Senators) that have signed onto the bill. The bipartisan support has been tremendous. We are excited to have hearings on the legislation and get it to the full legislature. The support from our elected officials demonstrates that they truly understand the importance of helping the families of those who give the ultimate sacrifice to keep our communities safe.”
The (WCPA) have continued to praise the bipartisan efforts of State Senators Van Wanggaard (R-Racine) and Janet Bewley (D-Mason) and State Representatives John Spiros (R-Marshfield) and Steve Doyle (D-Onalaska) for introducing the legislation.
Senate Bill 266 and companion bill Assembly Bill 300 have broad support of public safety groups including: the Wisconsin Professional Police Association, Wisconsin Sheriffs and Deputy Sheriffs Association, Badger State Sheriffs Association, County Law Enforcement Professionals of Wisconsin, and the Professional Firefighters of Wisconsin.
Marschke concluded by saying, “Law enforcement around the state greatly appreciate knowing that Wisconsin legislators not only “back the badge” but back the families of law enforcement as well. We look forward to getting this legislation passed and signed into law.”
WCPA is a statewide organization representing top local law enforcement in more than 700 communities across the state.
