(TargetLiberty.org) – On Tuesday, Washington Mayor Muriel Bowser (D) proposed new legislation that would increase the penalties for violent crimes and gun-related crimes.
The proposal outlines an increase in the penalties for illegal gun possession, violent crimes against people with mental or physical disabilities, and crimes that target public transportation workers. The proposal also includes turning strangulation into a felony assault which would carry a prison sentence of up to three years.
In the statement released Bowser noted that there has been a lot of talk from members of the public about the gaps in the “public safety ecosystem.” She proceeded to argue that these gaps are going to be addressed through this proposal which would allow for the creation of a “safer, stronger D.C.” She added that this would also allow the people who live in the city to safely enjoy living there.
The new proposal was announced on Monday, only a day before she is scheduled to testify before the House Oversight and Accountability Committee about crime and safety in D.C. and how the city is managed. The House Republicans have criticized crime in the District, and earlier this year voted to block D.C.’s revised criminal code before it was enacted.
In order for the proposal to become law it would need to be passed by the D.C. Council. The proposal would also provide the courts with more discretion regarding who could be detained prior to their trial.
Acting Deputy Mayor Linsey Appiah in a statement noted that they were working to create a policy environment in D.C. that would help protect those working in the city.
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