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New laws affecting policing in Baltimore

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BALTIMORE — This year, 2020 will be the beginning of a new look for the Baltimore City Police Department.

This is because two new state laws which went into effect this month will not only put more sworn officers on the street, but also reshape the police districts they serve.

Several community members and elected officials gathered in Northeast Baltimore to show their support for the two laws, including Kenneth Harris Junior.

He's the son of late City Councilman Kenneth Harris Sr., who was killed outside a Northeast Baltimore jazz club in 2008.

"Doing something that makes sense in helping the city become safer so I have much appreciation," said Harris Sr. "I know my father is very proud, and very happy, and it’s a good day in Baltimore."

One law requires the police commissioner to take a look at the boundaries of each police district every ten years using census data.

This allows district lines to be redrawn based on current needs instead of outdated information.