FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
The following statement can be attributed to ACLU-KY Policy Strategist Keturah Herron regarding Senate passage of SB 4, a version of Breonna's Law:
"The Senate today passed Senate Bill 4, a version of Breonna’s Law that bans no-knock warrants except in some circumstances. There are too many exemptions, but SB4 is a strong start. Breonna Taylor’s family deserves justice, and this is a step in that direction.
No knock warrants are a danger to the public and law enforcement. They explicitly contradict the Castle Doctrine, which allows Kentuckians to defend their homes with force if they believe the intruder is there to harm them. We thank the Kentucky Senate for taking this important step to protect Kentuckians.
SB4 is a critical part of reimagining the role of police in public safety. But it shouldn’t have taken the murder of an innocent Black woman – in her own home – to make this happen. We hope lawmakers will also consider #HB21 which bans no-knock warrants and implement other policing reforms. Undoubtedly, SB4 will save lives. As Breonna Taylor's mother, Tamika Palmer, said, “Breonna was an EMT and always wanted to save lives. With the passage of Breonna’s Law, she will save lives forever.”
We call on the House of Representatives to pass Senate Bill 4."