I received several calls with respect to any impact the police department may experience should the state shut down because the legislature fails to agree on a budget.
The short term implications could mean that state computer information systems such as criminal history files, and communications may be less responsive or unavailable for periods of time. I’m not aware at this time if criminal justice information systems will be considered essential services or not. If shut down, this would mean officers would not be able to check for wanted persons, driver license histories or vehicle information.
The funding for our regional drug task force and the technical support would most likely stop. This would mean that the task force would have to operate until money runs out and then it would be up to local agencies to make up costs or shut down the operation until the state refunds the task force.
Fund reimbursement for officer training, state dollars for alcohol compliance checks, alcohol licensing and education access would probably be disrupted. It is unclear right now if the state will be forced to shut down the state crime labs. If this were to happen, we would not be able to process evidence or have it examined.
The day-to-day operations of our department would continue. There would be no reduction in service levels to requests for services. If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to contact me by email or at our office at 507-645-4477.