An Act to amend 946.70 (1) (a), (b), (c) and (d); to create 946.70 (1) (intro.) of the statutes; Relating to: classification of the crime of impersonating law enforcement officers, fire fighters, and certain other emergency personnel and providing a penalty.
Impact
If enacted, SB132 will modify existing statutes under section 946.70 related to impersonation offenses. The strict penalties for impersonating emergency personnel could discourage such behavior, thereby potentially protecting emergency response professionals and the public alike. This legislative change reflects an ongoing concern over the protection of public safety and the integrity of law enforcement and emergency services.
Summary
Senate Bill 132 seeks to amend Wisconsin state law regarding the crime of impersonating law enforcement officers, firefighters, and other emergency personnel. The bill proposes a significant change in the classification of this crime from a Class A misdemeanor to a Class I felony. This amendment increases the severity of the consequences for individuals who mislead others by impersonating these critical roles, thus aiming to enhance public safety and trust in official emergency services.
Contention
There may be varying perspectives on the implications of SB132. Supporters argue that by elevating the crime's classification, the bill provides a stronger deterrent against impersonation, thereby safeguarding the integrity of emergency personnel. Conversely, critics might express concerns about the breadth of the law and whether it could lead to unjust penalties in cases where intent may not be clear or where minors might be involved.
Crossfiled
An Act to amend 946.70 (1) (a), (b), (c) and (d); to create 946.70 (1) (intro.) of the statutes; Relating to: classification of the crime of impersonating law enforcement officers, fire fighters, and certain other emergency personnel and providing a penalty.
Policy for theft of public funds, school safety, and emergency vehicles provided; crimes of first-degree murder and impersonating a peace officer modified; new crimes created; firearms policy provided; criminal penalties provided; and money appropriated.
Crimes: public office and officers; penalties for disarming a law enforcement officer of a firearm if accomplished by force or if law enforcement officer is injured; increase. Amends sec. 479b of 1931 PA 328 (MCL 750.479b).
Criminal penalty for impersonating a peace officer increased, crime of impersonating a peace officer while possessing a firearm established, enhanced penalties established, persons presenting as peace officers required to fulfill duty to identify, and criminal penalties established.
Designates certain offenses against emergency medical services personnel, firefighters, and law enforcement officers as hate crimes; includes the definition of emergency medical services personnel, firefighters, and law enforcement officers.