ST PAUL, Minn. — Governor Tim Walz is hopeful for an interim solution to police concerns over new legal restraints on school policing. Although expressing optimism after meeting with law enforcement agencies and legislators, Walz was unspecific about what form an interim solution might take. Police agencies already have ceased staffing in 40 school districts. The question regards the level of force that officers can use to maintain order. Walz said he will ask the 2024 Legislature to clarify the law, which was created this spring.. But the Legislature doesn’t convene for another 3-1/2 months. Walz noted that Attorney General Keith Ellison has issued a binding interpretation of the law that, the governor said, allows school resource officers to do their jobs effectively. Even so, law enforcement agencies still see the law as vague and can be read to mean that any restraint of a disruptive student is prohibited. To the law agencies, Ellison interpretation that allows “reasonable force” is vague.
Verbatim
Walz: “I am committed to further addressing this issue next legislative session and eager to see school resource officers return to schools as soon as possible.”
Discussants
Meeting with Walz to seek a solution:
> Minnesota Police and Peace Officers Association.
> Minnesota Sheriff’s Association.
> League of Minnesota Cities.
> Legislative leaders.
> Lawyers representing the attorney general.