Rep. Alzate and RI Legislative Black and Latino Caucus statement on police body cam budget proposal
STATE HOUSE – The Rhode Island Legislative Black and Latino Caucus, chaired by Rep. Karen Alzate (D-Dist. 60, Pawtucket), is releasing the following statement concerning today’s announcement of a budget proposal providing funding for police body cameras throughout the state:
“The RI Legislative Black and Latino Caucus is grateful that police body cameras will now be available to be used by the State Police and municipalities who have yet to utilize them. When Representative Jose Batista and Senator Jonathon Acosta sponsored legislation to achieve the same goal, the Caucus was in full-support of this legislation that will bring accountability and transparency to interactions between the public and law enforcement.
This is a good first step in repairing the mistrust that has developed between law enforcement and the public, particularly individuals of color, but there is still far more work to be accomplished in order to fix this problem.
We thank Speaker Shekarchi, Senate President Ruggerio and Governor McKee for listening to us and others about the significant importance of this proposal and the Caucus will continue to advocate for our communities to bring positive change and justice for all,” said Chairwoman Alzate, speaking on behalf of the Caucus.
The Rhode Island Legislative Black and Latino Caucus (RILBLC) represents and advocates for the interests of disadvantaged people throughout the State of Rhode Island. It seeks to increase a diverse participation and representation in all levels of government.
The goal is to close, and ultimately to eliminate, disparities that still exist between white and non-white Americans in every aspect of life.