Protecting our Communities

Violent crime has been on the rise in our country over the past few years, and unfortunately Indiana is no exception. In response to this, I supported a handful of measures this year that I believe will have a positive impact on our communities and help keep Hoosiers safe.

Some recent issues have stemmed from defendants being released on low or reduced bail and placed on electronic monitoring devices. Senate Enrolled Act 9 sets new standards for the oversight of those on electronic monitoring, including setting staffing requirements and alerting victims if the person being monitored leaves their designated area.

I also supported House Enrolled Act 1300, which requires third-party bail organizations to be subject to state regulation in the same way as traditional bail bondsmen. It also no longer allows these organizations to bail out those charged with a violent crime. 

Lastly, I supported measures to improve how our first responders are able to help our citizens. Senate Enrolled Act 247 requires all state departments involved with the 911 system to submit reports on how to improve interoperability between response areas, and Senate Enrolled Act 294 will implement new standards and best practices for law enforcement in the state.

While there is no cure-all for crime in Indiana, I believe these measures will help better protect Hoosiers.

– Sen. Phil Boots represents Montgomery, Fountain, Parke, Vermillion and Warren counties and a portion of Boone County. He is one of the shareholders of The Paper of Montgomery County.