Iowa Governor Culver Signs “Bouncer Bill” into Law

Bill in response to the death of Charles Lovelady eight years ago at a Des Moines nightclub

May 12, 2008 -- (DES MOINES) – Today, Iowa Governor Chet Culver signed House File 901, legislation that creates a pilot project in Polk County that requires at least one person trained in special security techniques at Iowa bars and nightclubs. The training would cover techniques for safely removing people, de-escalation, use of force, anger management, civil rights, and the recognition of fake IDs.

Governor Culver said, “As the Governor of Iowa, I want to thank the many community members who came together in response to this terrible act of violence, and who speak with one voice, when they say, ‘never again.’ Never again should a young person be in fear for his or her safety when doing something as simple as enjoying a night out with friends. Never again should a family be hurt, be broken, because of negligent acts of those who are to keep us safe. And never again can our communities as a whole take a blind eye to institutional racism, wherever it exists. “

HF 901 is in response to the death of Charles Lovelady of Des Moines. He died at a Des Moines nightclub in 2000. A coroner ruled Lovelady died from suffocation after being placed in a choke-hold by two bouncers. Lovelady was 26 years old when he died.

Representative Wayne Ford pushed this legislation and also spoke at today’s bill signing ceremony, saying, “I looked his parents in the eye and said, ‘I will do all I can do to make sure your son’s death is not in vain.’” Also in attendance were Representative Ako Abdul-Samad and State Senator Jack Hatch, in addition to members of Charles Lovelady’s family and other community leaders.

Source: Iowa Governor

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