Definition: routine traffic stop

The shortest definition in the dictionary is for the phrase routine traffic stop. It's the shortest definition because there's no such thing as a routine traffic stop, especially in Minneapolis. While it seems fundamental to enforcing the law, having the DFL and GOP define executing a traffic stop is like expecting oil and water to mix.

With the Minnesota legislature getting into full swing, getting the DFL's crime-fighting bill reconciled with the GOP crime-fighting bill is like putting cats and dogs together, then expecting them to behave. This article highlights some of the differences.

The Republican-led Minnesota Senate just authorized a million dollar ad campaign to attract more officers, and wants to give new recruits a $10,000 signing bonus. DFL lawmakers want more civilian review of police and to give the Post Board, which licenses officers, the right to pull an officer’s license for a criminal action even if there is not a conviction.

New Hope Rep. Cedrick Frazier is the author of the DFL House police reform bill. He was a guest on WCCO Sunday Morning. "These are civilian review boards that will be determined by your local community, your local city council will determine how that board is shaped and will determine what power and authority that board has," he said.

Frazier’s bill would also change police body cam video policy. Police would be required, with a fatal incident, to show family members the video within seven days. DFL House members also don’t like the Senate’s $1 million marketing campaign to attract police applicants. The House DFL would like to see $2 million go directly to recruiting, with an emphasis on hiring people of color.

Police reform with an emphasis on training is needed. Clear guidance on what police are allowed to do is essential. A police officer's Bill of Rights is required. A citizen's Bill of Rights is essential, too.

Traffic stops aren't just dangerous for those getting pulled over. They're dangerous for officers, too. Just ask Kim Potter.

Benjamin Crump and Keith Ellison talked up the loss to the Wright family. Fair enough. Still, let's remember that Daunte likely would still be with us if he hadn't skipped his court appearance, which led to the issuance of his bench warrant. Further, he'd likely still be alive if he hadn't tried escaping.

That isn't the politically correct thing to say but that doesn't mean it's wrong. Further, the officers' Bill of Rights should include the right to not get criticized by grandstanding city councilmembers hoping to score points with BLM activists.

Those getting stopped have an obligation to obey the officer. Citizens have the right to be treated with respect. Officers have the right to be obeyed within the published and clearly-written guidelines.

Police reform isn't all that's needed. Society reform is required, too.