WASHINGTON, DC - A group of bipartisan lawmakers announced new legislation that aims to increase funding for local law enforcement agencies, including here in Mid-Michigan.
The Invest to Protect Act aims to make critical investments that help to reduce crime and enhance public safety.
The lawmakers hope the investment, if passed, will contribute to the recruitment, retention and training of officers.
The Act would create a new grant program for:
- officer recruitment and retention
- personnel costs
- mental health resources for officers
- body cameras and other equipment
This program would specifically benefit smaller police departments, those that employ fewer than 200 officers, according to the lawmakers.
Michigan Congressman Dan Kildee is among those supporting the bill.
“Everyone should feel safe in their community. I’m proud to introduce legislation to increase funding for mid-Michigan law enforcement, so they can hire more police officers and keep our neighborhoods and communities safe,” said Congressman Kildee.
Genesee County Sheriff Chris Swanson joined Kildee on Capitol Hill for the announcement on Thursday.
HEAR WHAT HE HAD TO SAY: