Minnesota House Republicans roll out public safety package

Tougher sentences for criminals, including a new penalty for carjacking and more scrutiny over judges who are lenient when sentencing criminals are among key provisions in a broad-ranging public safety package Minnesota House Republicans rolled out last week.  KAUS spoke with State District 27B Patricia Mueller, a Republican from Austin who stated that the initiative is focused on providing enough resources to keep communities across the state safe…

Republicans propose that in murder cases or when a victim objects, any “downward departure” when a criminal is sentenced would need approval of a special “sentencing jury.”   Another bill would require the legislature’s approval to lower sentencing guidelines.  Currently, a special commission’s decision takes effect unless the legislature vetoes it.