SPLC Action Fund Statement on the U.S. House Passing the Justice in Policing Act of 2020

WASHINGTON — The SPLC Action Fund President and CEO Margaret Huang issued the statement below following the U.S. House of Representatives passing the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act of 2020 tonight:

“While we are encouraged that the U.S. House of Representatives passed the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act this evening, this bill is only a first first step in reforming law enforcement agencies and addressing accountability. 

“The bill includes critical changes such as banning chokeholds, no knock warrants and qualified immunity. However, it doesn’t go far enough to dismantle structural racism and transform our policing systems.  We need bold steps that respond to the moment and achieve lasting change. 

“The SPLC Action Fund joined more than 450 civil rights organizations to call for reforming our nation’s policing system. Among them, are: creating a federal standard that permits the use of force only when necessary; demilitarizing law enforcement agencies; ending “policing for profit” mechanisms; creating a national registry of officers who have engaged in misconduct; and banning racial profiling.  

“Communities across the country are demanding an end to the legacy of police brutality. Congress must continue their work to heed the call to ensure safety, equality, and justice for all.”