STATEHOUSE (Feb. 16, 2023) – Indiana House lawmakers voted Tuesday to advance State Rep. Wendy McNamara's (R-Evansville) legislation that would create a perimeter around law enforcement officers while they are conducting an investigation.
If passed, McNamara's bill would require bystanders to stay 25 feet away from law enforcement while they are engaged in their duties. McNamara, chair of the House Courts and Criminal Code Committee, said she crafted the legislation after hearing concerns from local law enforcement officers that have had issues keeping some bystanders at a safe distance away. She said unnecessary distractions could endanger the responding officers and the public.
"Our public safety officers have important work to do, and their jobs often involve dangerous and unpredictable situations," McNamara said. "The goal of this bill is to give officers another tool to help control a scene to maintain their safety and the public's safety."
Under House Bill 1186, anyone who knowingly or intentionally approaches within 25 feet of a law enforcement officer after being ordered to stop could face a Class C misdemeanor. The penalty carries a maximum $500 fine and up to 60 days in jail.
The Evansville Fraternal Order of Police, the Indiana State Fraternal Order of Police and the Indiana Sheriff's Association support McNamara's legislation.
House Bill 1186 now moves to the Senate for consideration and constituents can visit iga.in.gov to learn more or track the bill through the legislative process.
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State Rep. Wendy McNamara (R-Evansville) represents House District 76,
which includes all of Posey County and a portion of Vanderburgh County.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
