In response to escalating crime rates in the nation's capital, Democratic Mayor Muriel Bowser has unveiled a new legislative proposal aimed at addressing the current crime trends. The legislation, known as the Addressing Crime Trends (ACT) Now Act, seeks to implement measures to combat organized retail theft, target loitering around drug markets, and restrict the use of masks for criminal activities.

Mayor Bowser presented the ACT Now Act during a press conference held in Ward Four, emphasizing the need for immediate action to curb the rising violence in the city. The proposed legislation includes provisions to clarify the parameters around the use of force, grant officers access to body camera footage before filing reports in certain cases, establish guidelines for vehicular pursuits, and define the dissemination of information regarding officer discipline.

While touting the commendable efforts of the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) in maintaining fair and constitutional policing, Bowser underscored the importance of adapting reforms to address the practical challenges encountered in day-to-day law enforcement. She noted that some changes made under the Comprehensive Police Adjustment and Injustice Amendment Act did not align with safe and effective policing practices.

Acknowledging the concerns and demands of residents for improved public safety, Mayor Bowser emphasized the urgency of filling gaps in the city's public safety ecosystem. She expressed the need to dispel the perception that criminals can act with impunity. The proposed legislation, according to Bowser, would help send a strong message that violence is unacceptable and help change this perception.

The ACT Now Act specifically aims to combat organized retail theft by making it illegal to organize profit-driven theft schemes and recruit individuals for such purposes. The legislation also reinstates laws against using masks for criminal activities or to threaten and cause fear. Mayor Bowser highlighted the significant shift in the community's attitude towards mask-wearing since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Addressing the issue of drug markets and loitering, Bowser asserted that community members are well aware of illegal activities taking place in their neighborhoods. The ACT Now Act intends to empower the MPD to declare temporary drug-free zones, lasting up to 120 hours, to disrupt and prevent the congregation of individuals engaged in the purchase, sale, or use of illegal drugs. This collaborative approach between law enforcement and community members aims to restore safety and reclaim public spaces.

Furthermore, Mayor Bowser emphasized that the legislation would create a supportive policy environment for police officers, enhancing their ability to make Washington, D.C. safer. The ACT Now Act seeks to bolster the hiring and retention of highly qualified officers, ultimately benefiting communities and victims.

It is worth noting that Mayor Bowser's proposal marks a distinct shift from her previous stance on police reforms. In 2020, following the tragic death of George Floyd, Bowser ordered the painting of "Black Lives Matter" in bright yellow letters on a street near the White House. However, during her re-election campaign, Bowser distanced herself from the "defund the police" movement promoted by progressive Democrats in the district.

The ACT Now Act will now undergo further review and consideration by relevant stakeholders, including the D.C. Council, as part of the legislative process. As crime rates continue to rise in the nation's capital, Mayor Bowser's proposed reforms aim to restore order and prioritize the safety and well-being of Washington, D.C. residents.