LANSING, MI (WKZO AM/FM) — With overwhelming bipartisan support, The Michigan House of Representatives on Tuesday, March 8, passed House Bill 5720, which would designate a portion U.S. 131 in Kalamazoo County as the Sergeant Ryan J. Proxmire Memorial Highway.
Proxmire, who was a deputy with the Kalamazoo County Sheriff’s Office was killed in the line of duty when he succumbed to a gunshot wound he received during a vehicle pursuit south of Galesburg in August of 2021.
In February, State Representative Julie M. Rogers (D-Kalamazoo), was honored to have Proxmire’s family and members of the Kalamazoo County Sheriff’s Office in Lansing to offer testimony on HB 5720 during the committee process.
“I was extremely humbled and appreciative to be joined by Roanna Proxmire, Sgt. Proxmire’s wife, and Sheriff Richard Fuller from the Kalamazoo County Sheriff’s Office in Lansing last month,” said Rogers. “Their testimony in support of House Bill 5720 was incredibly moving and heartfelt. Spouses and families of law enforcement share their loved ones with our communities, and they often sacrifice so much. We are entirely indebted for their service.”
Rogers also extended her appreciation to Mark and Dawn Proxmire, Sgt. Proxmire’s parents, Capt. Amy Price from the Kalamazoo County Jail Division, and Lt. Troy Faulk from the Kalamazoo County Sheriff’s Office, also in attendance during the House Transportation Committee’s hearing in February.
The bill will now move onto the Michigan Senate for consideration.
