There was a fiery debate in a House committee Wednesday as legislators argue over whether or not a resolution to study policing policy should mention race or George Floyd.
The original resolution referenced the killing of George Floyd as one reason for establishing a study group. Pineville Representative Mike Johnson was not happy about Floyd’s name being included.
“If you are asking me what makes me uncomfortable it is referencing one specific event that happened in Minneapolis, Minnesota which is not Louisiana,” says Johnson.
But New Orleans Representative Royce Duplessis says the response to Floyd’s killing was historic, and the impetus behind a nationwide wave of interest in policing policy.
“This is a watershed moment in this country, in this world. I do not believe that it was improper for it to be noted in the resolution because that is what caused the protests,” says Duplessis.
The resolution mentioned the killing of black men by white police officers and questioned the treatment of minorities by law enforcement. Haughton Representative Dodie Horton called it racist.
“This document, unless it is rewritten, I’ve never been more insulted since I have been elected,” says Horton.
But resolution sponsor Baton Rouge Representative Ted James says people should instead be insulted by ongoing issues of police brutality.
“For those of you who are offended by the words, just look at me and realize how offended we are by the actions,” says James.
The resolution ultimately passed but was amended to remove any mention of George Floyd. It moves to the House floor.
