WASHINGTON – During National Police Week, the Senate Judiciary Committee advanced bipartisan legislation led by Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), senior member and former chairman of the Judiciary Committee, to solve staffing shortages at local police departments. The Retired Law Enforcement Officers Continuing Service Act would provide departments financial support and direct access to a pool of retired federal, state and local officers to perform investigations and analysis, as well as training for the next generation of law enforcement. Sen. Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.) is an original cosponsor of the legislation. 

“Criminal trends threaten Americans’ peace and safety and strain law enforcement resources," Grassley said. "Iowa law enforcement tell me they’re particularly struggling with recruitment and retention of officers. Retired officers who are willing and able to continue working to protect our communities and staff law enforcement departments should have our support to do so. I'm glad to see this innovative and commonsense measure move forward." 

Grassley also joined over 70 bipartisan Senate colleagues in a resolution this week honoring law enforcement officers who put their lives on the line to keep our communities safe. The resolution recognizes two fallen Iowa officers, Kevin Cram from Algona and Phoukham Tran from Des Moines. 

Additionally, a version of Grassley’s Law Enforcement Officer Safety and Wellness Through Data Act passed the House of Representatives yesterday, in an effort to prevent ambush-style attacks on law enforcement.  

Download video of Grassley discussing his efforts to Back the Blue HERE.  

Des Moines Police Department Chief of Police Dana Wingert praised Grassley’s bill, saying:

“This act will quickly prove to be impactful for law enforcement agencies across the country.  In a highly competitive hiring market, and one where many agencies are struggling with staffing shortages, this bill provides financial support and direct access to a pool of talented professionals who will provide an immediate operational impact.   

“This bill allows for law enforcement agencies to enhance and, in some cases, expand their capabilities by employing individuals who are highly trained, experienced and have demonstrated a commitment to public safety by investing their careers in the profession at the local, state and federal levels.  Personally speaking, in Central Iowa this includes individuals who we know and trust, many of which have been our valued partners for decades. Continued access to their unique skill sets, along with the financial support, will certainly be a force multiplier as law enforcement work tirelessly to address the ever-changing dynamics of our profession.   

“I applaud the sponsors and supporters of this bill for the pro-active and forward-thinking measures included in this act. Make no mistake, this will certainly move the needle in terms of capabilities, as it will allow immediate access to experience which cannot be taught, and skills that conventional hiring methods simply cannot provide.   

“My heartfelt thanks to Senator Grassley and the Senate Judiciary Committee for your continued support of law enforcement and your unwavering commitment to the greater good of keeping our communities safe.”   

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