WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senator Thom Tillis and his colleagues recently reintroduced bipartisan legislation to enhance information-gathering on attacks targeting law enforcement. The Improving Law Enforcement Officer Safety and Wellness Through Data Act would help fill identified gaps in reporting requirements for ambush-attacks against law enforcement officers by increasing our understanding of these crimes and how they arise.
“Attacks on our law enforcement officers are abhorrent and we must get a clear picture on when they occur,” said Senator Tillis. “I’m proud to co-introduce this bipartisan legislation so we can improve reporting and continue supporting the men and women in blue to prevent these disgusting acts.”
Background:
Tragically, 60 police officers were feloniously killed in the line of duty in 2022. Nearly 30 percent of police officer killings were the result of an unprovoked attack or ambush. While the government collects basic information on these attacks, such as when the attack occurred and what types of weapons were used, more information is needed to help law enforcement officers prepare for, identify, and prevent future anti-police activity.
The Improving Law Enforcement Officer Safety and Wellness Through Data Act would:
- Increase the categories of information that can be voluntarily reported regarding anti-police attacks, including the intention and coordination of perpetrators;
- Direct the Justice Department to explore adding escalatory aggression to its reports;
- Shed light on the mental health and stress-related impacts of aggressive activity or trauma on law enforcement; and
- Explore the availability and extent to which mental health resources for officers are used.
The bill is endorsed by the Fraternal Order of Police, the National Association of Police Officers, Sergeants Benevolent Association of the NYPD, Federal Law Enforcement Officers Association and Major Counties Sheriffs of America.
Full text of the bill is available HERE.
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