Tri-City Sun

State Representative Timmy Beson has cast a vote in favor of a new initiative designed to support law enforcement across Michigan. House Bills 4260-61 propose the establishment of the Public Safety and Violence Prevention Trust Fund. The initiative is anticipated to enhance resources available to local police departments, further equipping and staffing them to address safety concerns.

Beson stated, “Statistics show some of the most violent cities in the country are located here in Michigan. Our courageous law enforcement officers continue to serve our communities and help keep people safe, but they are dealing with issues recruiting new officers, retaining the ones they have and making sure they have the latest equipment. Our law enforcement officers need more resources so they can make a dent in these very troubling statistics. This vote shows we are serious about protecting our neighborhoods and families in Bay County and across our state.”

The bills allocate $115 million from annual sales tax revenue toward local law enforcement and violence prevention. Cities, villages, and townships with higher rates of violent crime over the previous three years will receive a portion of $72 million for public safety endeavors. The funds are designated solely for such purposes and cannot replace existing budgets.

Bay City is poised to gain nearly $400,000 in additional funding, with other allocations planned for various townships within Bay County, including Bangor, Hampton, Monitor, and Essexville.

Additionally, up to $40 million is earmarked for county sheriff offices, with distributions based on the size of their police forces. Bay County Sheriff’s Office stands to receive up to $350,000.

A performance evaluation measure is attached to the funding, which requires communities to meet specific benchmarks in reducing violent crime to continue receiving their full share. Beginning in the fiscal year 2027, funding will decrease by 5% if crime has not diminished by that same percentage, increasing to a 10% threshold by the fiscal year 2029.

The next step for HBs 4260-61 is a review by the Senate.