Standing With Those Who Serve

This National Police Week, we honor the courage, sacrifice, and service of the men and women in law enforcement. But our support cannot stop at gestures; it must be backed by action.

That’s why I proudly voted YES on three important bills that will give our law enforcement officers the tools, protections, and support they need and deserve. At the center of this effort is the Improving Law Enforcement Officer Safety and Wellness Through Data Act (H.R. 2240), a commonsense bill to protect our frontline heroes.

Officers in uniform face a range of threats both on the streets and off the clock. For too long, we’ve failed to see the full picture of the risks they face. H.R. 2240 changes that by enhancing how we collect and report data on violent attacks against law enforcement officers. Specifically, this bill directs the Department of Justice to track not just the attacks themselves, but also the government’s responses and where current reporting falls short. Better data means better protection. This is a step toward stronger protections for those who wear the badge.

The second bill, the LEOSA Reform Act (H.R. 2243), improves existing law to ensure that qualified retired and off-duty officers can carry concealed firearms across state lines. These officers have dedicated their lives to public safety, they shouldn’t face needless red tape to continue protecting themselves, their families, and their communities – even in retirement.

The final bill, Federal Law Enforcement Officer Service Weapon Purchase Act (H.R. 2255), supports law enforcement and saves taxpayer dollars by allowing federal law enforcement officers in good standing to purchase their service weapons at market value when those weapons are retired by an agency. This approach is practical, responsible, and rooted in respect. These officers were trained to use these weapons, and they should have the option to keep them rather than the taxpayers paying to dispose or destroy them.

These three bills represent a commitment to the people who keep us safe. During this National Police week, I am proud to say we’re taking real action to back the blue.