MADISON, WI – Today Governor Evers signed Senate Bill 159 and Assembly Bill 65 into law. Senate Bill 159 allows law enforcement agencies to equip their vehicles with visibility lights, while Assembly Bill 65 increases the penalties for entering a residence with the intent to commit battery. Following this, Representative Brent Jacobson (R – Mosinee) released the following statement:
“Ensuring public safety is one of the most important functions of government,” said Rep. Jacobson. “As a state representative, I am committed to making sure that the laws in our statutes give the brave men and women who serve in law enforcement the tools they need to do their jobs safely, and to keep dangerous criminals off our streets.”
Senate Bill 159 enables police vehicles to be equipped with additional lights on the front, rear, and sides. These additional lights help improve visibility and prevent traffic accidents during police stops, which are a common hazard to law enforcement. Assembly Bill 65 makes it a felony to enter a dwelling without consent in order to commit battery. This addresses an inconsistency within statutes where crimes against bodily security were treated less severely than crimes against property.
“I am incredibly proud to see these bills reach the finish line,” said Rep. Jacobson. “Public safety is one of my top priorities as a legislator. Thanks to these updates, Wisconsinites can rest easy knowing that the law will protect them from violent criminals, and our law enforcement can more effectively protect our communities and themselves.”
