Two Upper Peninsula representatives introduce a plan to modernize the Department of Natural Resources.
Representatives Greg Markkanen and Dave Prestin introduced a bill package to modernize the department’s policies for officers as the police force of the DNR. The bills will update warrant requirements, and require officers to wear body cams similar to state police.
Representative Prestin says while a vast majority of officers will obtain a search warrant or probable cause before entering private property, the bill will limit opportunities to use the open fields doctrine. And ensures DNR officer policies align with other law enforcement private property warrant policies in Michigan.
Markkanen added the body cam portion of the bills will protect the public and law enforcement by capturing video footage of interactions, shielding officers from false reports and citizens from excessive uses of power.
Both bills will move on to a house committee for consideration. Those interested in learning more can find each representative’s statements here.
