Image via Complex Original
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President Obama will reportedly prohibit the federal government from supplying local police departments with some military-style equipment in addition placing more stringent restrictions on the access that others have to it.
According to NBC News, President Obama's announcement will come from Camden, N.J. today, following his meeting with local law enforcement and youth:
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I'll highlight steps all cities can take to maintain trust between the brave law enforcement officers who put their lives on the line, and the communities they're sworn to serve and protect, Obama said in his weekly address out Saturday.
In previewing the president's trip, the White House said that effective immediately, the federal government will no longer fund or provide armored vehicles that run on a tracked system instead of wheels, weaponized aircraft or vehicles, firearms or ammunition of .50-caliber or higher, grenade launchers, bayonets or camouflage uniforms. The federal government also is exploring ways to recall prohibited equipment already distributed.
In addition, a longer list of equipment the federal government provides will come under tighter control, including wheeled armored vehicles like Humvees, manned aircraft, drones, specialized firearms, explosives, battering rams and riot batons, helmets and shields. Starting in October, police will have to get approval from their city council, mayor or some other local governing body to obtain it, provide a persuasive explanation of why it is needed and have more training and data collection on the use of the equipment.
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The president's decision comes in the wake of heightened tension between civilians and law enforcement across the country.
[via NBC News]