Important Protect & Serve Act Update!
And an example of why stuff doesn't get done for police
Given the continued rise in attacks of our nation’s guardians, a top legislative priority is the Protect & Serve Act (H.R. 743), introduced in Congress earlier this year. In short, offenders would be subject to imprisonment for up to 10 years for knowingly harming -or attempting to harm- an officer, or receive a life sentence if the officer passes.
This bill would send a resounding message that attacks on officers of the law will not be tolerated. Though it’s not a panacea, it has the potential to save police officer lives.
Currently, there are few-to-no deterrents for assaulting local or state police officers. While most states in the union have laws that penalize crimes against officers, they vary in verbiage and application. Depending on the political persuasion of a district attorney, justice can be arbitrary.
That’s why it’s been exciting to watch Protect & Serve progress. The bill currently has 91 co-sponsors, a decent level of bi-partisan support, and a realistic chance of being passed. It’s a reasonable bill that I would think most sensible Americans could rally behind.
So imagine my shock yesterday as I was reading the December issue of the FOP Journal. (See page 31). Apparently, Representative Jim Jordan had acknowledged H.R. 743 but was forced to table it because a “group of Republicans on the committee told him they would oppose the legislation.”
I’m waiting to hear back from Rep. John Rutherford’s office (he’s the bill’s key author; and his staff have been nothing but helpful and gracious). And thus far no luck reaching Rep. Jordan’s office. You can bet, however, that I’ll continue to follow up until we have the answers we deserve. Remember, our elected officials work for us, not the other way around.
While I don’t want to make my assumptions publicly known until all the facts have surfaced, let me reiterate: Democratic policies may have propelled our public safety crisis; the GOP (exceptions noted), however, has a long way to go before it can rightfully refer to itself as the party of law and order.
Republicans have written very few bills designed to protect our police officers and re-establish law and order. And when a reasonable, meaningful bill does reach their desk, they can’t even reach a consensus?
We should be much further along on this issue than we are. It’s a simple concept, really: Protect and support our cops so they can keep us safe and defend our civil liberties. So why is progress on this issue seemingly at a standstill?
Keep in mind that while Republicans can’t agree on commonsense public safety legislation, the opposition to this bill from the anti-police cabals is solid. There are at least 50 organizations, including large, well-funded ones, that have signed a letter in opposition to this bill.
One thing is certain: We’re in dire need of genuine servant-leaders who care deeply about this country and its people. There are too many who get into positions of leadership and authority to take what they can.
When I know more about the cabal involved in this decision, you’ll be some of the first to know. In the meantime, it’s imperative that you urge your congressperson to co-sponsor the Protect & Serve Act (H.R. 743). You can use FOP’s handy form to do this, though a personal letter or phone call would be preferable.
Best. : )
For the Blue is a solutions-based initiative. I’m just an American patriot asking questions. I don’t work with any political party and I answer to nobody. For me, the health of the nation, due process (including for police officers), the rule of law, and respect for individual liberties, will always transcend party affiliation. I welcome your thoughts, even if you disagree; though personal attacks will be ignored. You can reach me at fortheblue@substack.com.