Washington – Today, Business Roundtable President & CEO Joshua Bolten issued the following statement calling on Congress and the President to come together to enact significant police reform legislation before Congress’ August recess:
“Recent events have, once again, exposed the injustices facing black Americans and other people of color. This moment presents an urgent opportunity to address longstanding systemic racial inequities. Business Roundtable CEOs are committed to examining the many ways corporations can advance racial equity in our own businesses. We are also committed to working with policymakers and partners on legislative solutions for real change.
“Among the most urgent challenges is the need to protect our citizens and address unwarranted, excessive and even lethal force, especially against unarmed black men and women. Business Roundtable applauds the current leadership of Speaker Nancy Pelosi, House Republican Leader Kevin McCarthy, Congressional Black Caucus Chair Karen Bass, House Judiciary Chairman Jerrold Nadler, Senators Tim Scott, Cory Booker and Kamala Harris along with the many others who have long worked on legislative solutions to this crisis. Business Roundtable is also encouraged by the Administration’s efforts through Executive Action.
“While recognizing sharp divisions on some policing issues, Business Roundtable urges lawmakers to come together and seize the opportunity for real solutions. Business Roundtable stands ready to put our full weight behind enactment of significant reforms before Congress’ August recess.”