Senator Chuck Grassley of Iowa took to the floor to mark National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day, expressing deep gratitude for the courageous men and women in law enforcement. He emphasized that while this appreciation is deserved every day of the year, tomorrow, January 9, stands out as a special occasion to acknowledge their contributions to society.
Grassley pointed out the positive impact of law enforcement on safety, highlighting a 12% reduction in violent crime and a remarkable 20% decline in murders across major cities this year. He credited these improvements to the dedication of law enforcement officials, commending their efforts to remove dangerous drugs, such as fentanyl and meth, from the streets.
As the Chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee, Grassley has been actively involved in supporting law enforcement at both the local and national levels. He collaborated with Senate Republicans and the White House on significant legislation that benefits law enforcement, including the Working Families Tax Cut, which secures crucial funding for the Byrne JAG and COPS programs aimed at local police forces and combating drug trafficking.
During Police Week in May, Grassley played a key role in the passage of four bipartisan bills that became law as part of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). These laws will enhance federal support for law enforcement and their families, and they aim to strengthen efforts against online child exploitation. Furthermore, the NDAA expanded counter-drone authorities for state and local law enforcement, reflecting bipartisan cooperation in legislative efforts.
Grassley expressed optimism for continued bipartisan support for law enforcement initiatives and extended heartfelt thanks to all those dedicated individuals committed to ensuring the safety of their communities. He concluded with a message of hope, wishing for God’s blessings and protection for law enforcement officers as they carry out their vital work in safeguarding the American people.