Senator Anwar Releases Statement as Bill Allowing Police Officers to Wear Religious Head Coverings Receives Public Hearing

HARTFORD – State Senator Saud Anwar (D-South Windsor) released the following statement as the Public Safety and Security Committee today held a public hearing to consider legislation including Raised Senate Bill No. 133, "An Act Allowing Police Officers To Wear Religious Head Coverings As Part Of A Police Uniform."

"In 2021, the Senate passed legislation allowing police officers in Connecticut to wear religious head coverings as part of their police uniforms, but that legislation was never made law. I am hopeful that this important legislation, reflective of our state's diverse population and supportive of members of the Sikh religion, will be approved this year. Religious police officers today may have to choose between following tradition and wearing their assigned uniforms. Providing them with the freedom to protect their communities and remain devout to their beliefs alike is important; I hope we can get it across the finish line this year."