WASHINGTON, D.C. – This week, the U.S. Senate passed three law enforcement bills supported by U.S. Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC). The Strong Communities Act, Invest to Protect Act of 2022, and the Law Enforcement De-Escalation Training Act passed by unanimous consent. All three bills now head to the House for a vote.

“Our brave law enforcement officers deserve the best tools, equipment, and training to do their jobs effectively,” said Senator Tillis. “I am proud to support these bipartisan bills to ensure our police officers receive the support they deserve and I applaud the Senate for passing the legislation to assist officers across the country. I will always work hard to support our brave men and women in blue.”

Legislation passed by the Senate:

• Invest to Protect Act 

Legislation that seeks to provide $250 million over the next five years to small law enforcement agencies across the country. This funding will help them invest in training, equipment, mental health support and recruitment and retention of officers. The bill advanced in committee by voice vote without objection.

• Strong Communities Act

Building off the purpose of the Invest to Protect Act, this proposal would allow Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) grant funds to be utilized for recruiting and retaining local police officers, with a focus on encouraging officers to live in the communities they serve. The bill advanced in committee by voice vote without objection.

• Law Enforcement De-Escalation Training Act 

This legislation seeks to amend the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of 1968 to provide for training on alternatives to use of force, including de-escalation and mental and behavioral health and suicidal crises training. The bill advanced in committee by voice vote without objection.  

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