McCollum Vote on H.Res.1213

Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H. Res. 1213, A resolution regarding violence against law enforcement officers.

Let me be clear: I am supporting this resolution because our law enforcement officers deserve better training and equipment, better data about the injuries they incur in the line of duty, and better resources to support their mental health and community engagement. Peace officers who serve their communities faithfully deserve our respect, and I resoundingly condemn the increase in violence against law enforcement officers.

However, this resolution also inserts unnecessarily divisive language into what should be a unifying message of support. The claim that an increase in violence against law enforcement officers is tied to calls to defund the police is unsupported and irresponsible. Congress should never use our first responders to force a partisan, politically charged message. This is especially true during Police Week, when we reflect on those who have died in the line of duty, and honor those who put their lives on the line every day to keep our communities safe.

The work law enforcement does is felt every day, and they deserve real, tangible support. Genuine support for our law enforcement officers requires Congress to address the myriad challenges they face. For example, we must work to stem the proliferation of ghost guns and assault weapons that make it especially dangerous and difficult for law enforcement to do their job. Congress must also ensure law enforcement is equipped to respond to the many calls they receive. I strongly support federal COPS grants to local law enforcement agencies, which have provided more than $16 million to Minnesota law enforcement agencies since 2016, putting more than 100 additional officers in our communities. Just as strongly, I oppose the Republican Majority’s budget proposals to cut this essential funding. Additionally, support for mental health professionals to accompany officers in certain situations is needed. Being a law enforcement officer already entails so much. They should not be expected to fill dozens of specialized roles in addition to their primary responsibilities. 

During my service in Congress, I have been committed to ensuring that our law enforcement officers have the resources and support they need to do their jobs. In my role on the Appropriations Committee, I have secured more than $8 million in Community Project Funding to directly support Fourth District law enforcement agencies and programs. I will continue to work to support Minnesota’s first responders and invest in community safety.

To our law enforcement community: thank you for the sacrifices you make every day to keep us safe.

Thank you and I yield back.