Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson has joined as a cosponsor of H.R. 2189, the Law-Enforcement Innovate to De-Escalate Act. The legislation, introduced by Rep. Scott Fitzgerald of Wisconsin, aims to provide law enforcement agencies with updated resources and ensure access to effective less-than-lethal equipment.
Simpson said, “Brave law enforcement officers serve and protect our communities every day. There is no reason they shouldn’t be equipped with the most effective tools and technology available to protect themselves and our neighborhoods. As men and women in uniform continue to face dangerous situations, our laws must adapt to advancing technology so that law enforcement can protect the public while keeping themselves safe.”
The bill seeks to update the Gun Control Act of 1968 by removing “less-than-lethal projectile devices” from its definition of “firearm.” This change would make it easier for police departments across the country to use new non-lethal technologies, such as long-range tasers.
Mike Simpson has served as Idaho’s 2nd district representative in Congress since 1999 after replacing Mike Crapo. Before his tenure in Congress, he was a member of the Idaho House of Representatives from 1984 until 1998. Simpson was born in Burley, Idaho in 1950 and currently resides in Idaho Falls. He graduated from Utah State University in 1972 with a Bachelor of Science degree.
The full text of the bill is available here.