Legislative Update 2025 - Flipbook - Page 43
SB 234 Senator Leek
Law Enforcement, Correctional, and Correctional Probation Officer Benefits
The FOP Legislative Team dedicated significant time and effort to Senate Bill 234 (Leek) / House
Bill 175 (Baker)—a critical piece of legislation aimed at strengthening protections for law
enforcement officers. The bill proposed enhanced penalties and updated definitions for
criminal offenses committed against law enforcement and corrections personnel. It sought to
prohibit the use or threat of force to resist arrest or detention by a known officer, regardless of
the officer’s conduct, and would have mandated life without parole for the murder of a law
enforcement or correctional officer, extending this to certain manslaughter cases. It also
expanded the definition of "law enforcement officer" and increased penalties for assault and
battery against officers performing official duties, including elevating resistance during lawful
duties to a third-degree felony.
An amendment filed by Representative Gottlieb attempted to insert language permitting the
use of reasonable force in response to excessive force by an officer. While it aimed to clarify
self-defense rights, it raised serious concerns for law enforcement. Thanks to the diligent
advocacy of the FOP Legislative Committee, the amendment was successfully opposed in the
House. However, on the Senate floor, Democrats amended the bill to include
