H.R. 3500: More Funding for COPS Act

This bill, titled the More Funding for COPS Act, seeks to amend an existing law known as the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of 1968, specifically targeting a funding program designed to enhance public safety and community policing efforts.

Key Provisions

• Reauthorization of the Grant Program: The bill proposes to reauthorize the COPS ON THE BEAT grant program. This program provides federal funding to state and local law enforcement agencies to help them hire additional officers and enhance community policing practices.
• Increased Funding Amount: The bill increases the authorized funding level for this program from approximately $1.04 billion per year (which was set for the period of 2006 to 2009) to about $1.16 billion per year for the new period covering fiscal years 2026 through 2030. This indicates a commitment to provide more resources for police departments over the next several years.

Purpose of the Bill

The intention behind increasing funding and reauthorizing the program is to support local law enforcement agencies in maintaining and improving safety within communities through better policing strategies and adequate staffing. By allowing for the hiring of more officers and potentially funding training programs, the bill aims to promote effective community policing and enhance public safety.

Implementation Timeline

If passed, the new funding levels would apply to a five-year period beginning in fiscal year 2026 and extend through fiscal year 2030. This planned funding increase is intended to assist law enforcement agencies in long-term planning and operational improvements.

Relevant Companies

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