Cedar Rapids Today

Congresswoman Ashley Hinson, alongside Reps. Dan Bishop, Jim Costa, and Henry Cuellar, has introduced the bipartisan, bicameral Improving Law Enforcement Officer Safety and Wellness Through Data Act. This legislation aims to address the rise in anti-police attacks, protect law enforcement officers in the line of duty, and support their mental health.

Hinson emphasized the importance of the bill, stating, "It is unacceptable that the rise of anti-police rhetoric has fueled a corresponding rise in violence against our brave law enforcement officers." She added, "Our law enforcement officers put themselves in harms’ way to protect us and always have our back, and this bill will ensure we have their backs, too."

Congressman Dan Bishop echoed these sentiments, highlighting the need to combat the surge in assaults against law enforcement officers. He remarked, "The push to defund the police from the left has been an utter disaster for our nation and the safety of law enforcement officers." Bishop expressed his commitment to standing with law enforcement and upholding law and order through the passage of the bill.

Additionally, Congressman Jim Costa emphasized the urgency of addressing the increase in violence against law enforcement. He stated, "Law enforcement officers put their lives on the line each day to protect our communities. Sadly, many of them don’t come home." Costa emphasized the importance of improving data reporting to prevent attacks against officers.

The legislation aims to increase the categories of information voluntarily reported regarding anti-police attacks, explore adding escalatory aggression to reports, shed light on the mental health impacts of aggressive activity on law enforcement, and assess the availability and utilization of mental health resources for officers.

Endorsed by various law enforcement organizations, including the Fraternal Order of Police and the National Association of Police Officers, the Improving Law Enforcement Officer Safety and Wellness Through Data Act seeks to provide comprehensive support to law enforcement officers facing escalating anti-police attacks and challenges in the line of duty.