Fresno Leader

WASHINGTON – On National Police Week, U.S. Congressman Jim Costa (CA-21) reaffirms his support for law enforcement by co-sponsoring the bipartisan, bicameral Invest to Protect Act, which would invest in local police departments and crime prevention to help make our communities safer.

"Our small police departments should not be left behind,” said Costa. "If we want to see real reforms that make a difference in our communities, it's important to realize that one size does not fit all. The overwhelming majority of our police forces across America and in my district have less than 100 personnel with stretched budgets. This legislation will help ensure these agencies have the necessary resources to invest in best practices and hire qualified people."

About 94% of local police departments in the U.S. employ fewer than 200 sworn police officers. The bipartisan Invest to Protect Act sponsored by Rep. Josh Gottheimer (NJ-05), would create new federal grants for small and midsize police departments with fewer than 200 sworn officers for safety training, victim-centered response, officer recruitment and retention, mental health resources, and safety equipment.

This bill would benefit local police departments that have fewer than 200 officers like the departments in the communities of Dinuba, Exeter, Farmersville, Fowler, Kingsburg, Orange Cove, Parlier, Reedley, Sanger, Selma, Visalia, and Woodlake. Other communities that would benefit include Atwater, Chowchilla, Dos Palos, Gustine, Livingston, Los Banos, Madera, and Merced.

 

In addition, Costa is an original co-sponsor of H.Res. 363, a resolution honoring law enforcement who fell in the line of duty. This resolution will be voted on tonight in the House and expected to pass with overwhelming bipartisan support.

Issues: Foreign Affairs and National Security 

Original source can be found here.