The recent surge in violent attacks against law enforcement officers has reached alarming levels, making the passage of the Protect and Serve Act not just necessary, but urgent.
This bipartisan legislation, reintroduced as H.R. 743, aims to establish new federal penalties for individuals who deliberately target and assault law enforcement officers.
In 2018, the Protect and Serve Act passed the House by a vote of 382-35, with the support of 220 Republicans and 162 Democrats but didn’t make any headway in the Senate so it had to be reintroduced.
This piece of legislation is crucial for enhancing the safety and protection of those who risk their lives every single day to safeguard our communities. Why isn't every single member of the House signed on to this bill?
According to the Fraternal Order of Police (FOP), there has been a significant increase in targeted attacks against police officers. In 2022 alone, there were 331 officers shot in the line of duty, resulting in 62 fatalities.
This is a stark reminder of the dangerous environment officers face daily. These attacks not only endanger the lives of officers but also undermine the rule of law and threaten public safety, according to the FOP.
The Protect and Serve Act seeks to address this escalating threat by imposing stricter penalties on those who intentionally target law enforcement officers. The Act will allow federal prosecution of individuals who cause, or attempt to cause, serious bodily harm to officers, with penalties including up to 10 years in prison.
In cases where the assault results in death, life imprisonment can be imposed. These enhanced penalties serve as a deterrent and emphasize the serious nature of crimes against law enforcement, according to the FOP.
One of the most compelling aspects of the Protect and Serve Act is its bipartisan backing. Introduced by Rep. John Rutherford, R-Fla., and Josh Gottheimer, D-N.J., the bill also has the support of key lawmakers across the political spectrum.
This broad support underscores the universal recognition of the need to protect those who serve and protect us. It is a rare instance where political divisions are set aside for the greater good of ensuring the safety and security of our communities.
Again, why isn't every single member of the House signed on to this bill and why isn't it making headway in the House?
Passing the Protect and Serve Act is not only about protecting officers; it is about upholding the rule of law and giving our brave men and women the respect they have earned and deserve.
When officers are safe, they can effectively perform their duties, which include maintaining public order, preventing crime, and responding to emergencies. Ensuring their protection ensures the stability and safety of our society as a whole.
When officers know the public has their back, they are proud to step out "onto the field" every day to protect and serve.
The time for action is now.
As citizens, we must urge our representatives to pass the Protect and Serve Act without delay. Law enforcement officers deserve our support and protection as they continue to serve under increasingly perilous conditions.
By enacting this legislation, Congress will send a clear message that attacks on law enforcement will not be tolerated and will be met with the full force of the law.
The Protect and Serve Act is a necessary step toward enhancing the safety of our law enforcement officers and, by extension, the communities they serve.
Its passage will honor the bravery and dedication of officers who put their lives on the line every day. Let us stand united in ensuring that those who protect us are themselves protected and supported.
Bryan E. Leib is the CEO of Henry Public Relations, a Senior Fellow with the Center for Fundamental Rights and the former Executive Director of the Iranian Americans for Liberty, and in 2018, he was the GOP Endorsed Congressional Candidate (PA-03). He tweets at @BryanLeibFL. Read More Bryan E. Leib Reports — Here.