WASHINGTON, D.C. – This week, Senators Thom Tillis (R-NC), Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), Bill Cassidy (R-LA), and Maggie Hassan (D-NH) 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:

In 2023, law enforcement agencies reported over 79,000 police officers were assaulted and 60 were feloniously killed. While the government collects basic information on these attacks, including when the attack occurred and the types of weapons used, more information is needed to help prepare for, identify and prevent 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. 

Full text of the legislation is available HERE.

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