Governor Jack Markell discusses the value of improved public safety. Markell explains how three bills he signed into law this week will make Delaware communities - and the citizens living in them - safer. Two of the new laws increase penalties for repeat drunk drivers and those convicted vehicular assault and homicide. The third increases police funding though the "Fund to Combat Violent Crimes."
Governor's Weekly Message
Governor Jack Markell
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Full text of Governor Jack Markell’s weekly message:
Here we are in the midst of summer. August is when families enjoy spending a little bit of extra time together and children enjoy time playing with friends and in the fresh air and sunshine.
It reminds us that the neighborhoods and streets should be strong and safe places for all of us.
This week, I signed three bills into law that will help keep our streets safer from crime and safer for drivers, pedestrians, bicyclists and for everyone who uses our roads.
Too many families in our state have lost loved ones to the senseless and preventable crime of drunk driving, including my own cousin who was killed by a drunk driver.
This week I signed a bill, sponsored by Representative Helene Keeley and Senator Patty Blevins that will help us crack down on repeat DUI offenders who repeatedly put people at risk.
Multiple offenders now face more time behind bars and they will get serious substance abuse treatment to help them address their underlying addiction issues. More jail time for people who deserve it most and more treatment for people who need it most.
A second bill I signed this week cracks down on crime by stepping up penalties for vehicular assault and homicide, recognizing the tragic seriousness of those offenses.
And a third bill, sponsored by Rep Larry Mitchell and Senator Bruce Ennis, is going to make sure that our brave state and local police officers have the resources they need to protect you and your family. Delaware’s new “Fund to Combat Violent Crimes” will raise up to four-point-two million dollars that will go to state police and your local police departments. Those who break the law will see a new 15-dollar penalty on their fines.
Each of these new laws stand up for secure neighborhoods and safer roads. Because at the end of the day, our state as only as strong and safe as its communities. Rest assured, as you continue to enjoy the remainder of your summer, many people are hard at work keeping public safety a public priority -- and keeping Delaware moving forward.
