A bill aimed at enhancing the safety of first responders while they perform their duties has moved forward in Kentucky. On March 14, 2024, the Veterans, Military Affairs and Public Protection Committee endorsed Senate Bill 104, also known as the “Halo Act.” This legislation seeks to establish a 25-foot safety barrier around first responders during their official duties, with the intention of reducing interference from the public.
The bill’s primary sponsor, Sen. Matt Nunn, a Republican from Sadieville, emphasized the importance of the proposed legislation for the safety of those who serve the community. “What this bill does is ensure that the men and women who protect and serve our commonwealth every day can do so without any interference, any impediments,” Nunn stated. He added that the aim is to allow first responders to return home safely each day while providing effective service to the public.
Under the proposed measure, the penalties for obstructing a first responder would escalate with repeated offenses. A first offense would incur a class B misdemeanor charge, while a second or third offense would be classified as a class A misdemeanor. Subsequent offenses would result in a class D felony charge. Nunn explained that offenders would receive a verbal warning before any legal action is taken, allowing them an opportunity to comply.
Committee Chair Matthew Deneen, a Republican from Elizabethtown, voiced support for the bill, highlighting the challenges first responders face from distraught family members during emergencies. “That’s critical to making sure that our first responders…have the space to do their job and that they can return home safely to their families,” Deneen remarked.
While the bill received support from several committee members, some raised concerns about the severity of the penalties. Sen. Jimmy Higdon, a Republican from Lebanon, acknowledged the need for the bill but described the felony provision as a “pretty tough standard.” Nunn responded by clarifying that the felony charge would only apply after multiple warnings and offenses, suggesting that it is a necessary escalation for repeat offenders.
Opposition to the bill also emerged during discussions. Sen. Karen Berg, a Democrat from Louisville, described the legislation as “thoughtful” but voted against it. She questioned the necessity of escalating penalties, noting that existing state laws already prohibit the obstruction of emergency responders. “Do you know how many people have been cited under this in the last couple of years in this state?” Berg asked, highlighting a gap in data regarding current enforcement.
Nunn acknowledged he did not have statistics on citations but reiterated the bill’s objective of establishing a clear standard for first responder protection, which he believes is currently lacking in existing law. “We have a serious problem here. I hear this often from first responders,” he said, advocating for the clarity the bill would bring.
Concerns about potential overreach were also raised. Sen. Gary Clemons, a Democrat from Louisville, expressed apprehension regarding the implications for free speech rights, particularly for individuals recording incidents involving police or immigration officers. He ultimately voted against the bill.
Despite these concerns, Sen. Craig Richardson, a Republican from Hopkinsville, supported the measure, arguing that it balances the rights of citizens with the need for first responders to operate effectively. “I think this bill creates well-defined standards to protect people that want to be there…but also protects those that are trying to serve and do their job,” Richardson stated.
The discussion concluded with support from Sen. Gary Boswell, a Republican from Owensboro, who acknowledged concerns about felony charges but ultimately found the bill to be lenient in its approach. “You’re given so many opportunities for people not to do this,” Boswell said, emphasizing the importance of accountability.
Senate Bill 104 will now advance to the full Senate for further consideration. The proposed legislation reflects ongoing efforts to protect the safety of first responders while balancing public rights during emergency situations.
