H.R. 5391: Bipartisan Bulletproof Vest Partnership Program Expansion Act

This bill, known as the Bipartisan Bulletproof Vest Partnership Program Expansion Act, proposes changes to the federal assistance program designed to help law enforcement agencies purchase bulletproof vests. The primary aspects of the bill are as follows:

Increased Federal Support

The bill aims to increase the federal government's financial contribution toward the purchase of bulletproof vests for law enforcement officers. Specifically, the federal share of funding would be increased from 50 percent to 60 percent of the total cost of the vests acquired by law enforcement agencies.

Authorization of Funds

Additionally, the bill authorizes the appropriation of $60 million each fiscal year from 2026 through 2030 to support this grant program. This funding is aimed at enhancing the safety of law enforcement personnel by making it more affordable for agencies to acquire necessary protective equipment.

Impact on Local Law Enforcement

By increasing the federal share of funding and providing additional appropriations, the bill is designed to assist local law enforcement agencies in securing vital safety equipment without overextending their budgets. This could allow smaller or underfunded departments to invest in their officers' safety more effectively.

Implementation

The changes to the funding levels and appropriations would be applied to the existing framework of the Patrick Leahy Bulletproof Vest Partnership Grant Program, which already exists under the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of 1968.

Overall Purpose

The overall purpose of the bill is to bolster the safety of law enforcement officers by making bulletproof vests more accessible through increased federal financial support, thereby encouraging more agencies to equip their personnel adequately.

Relevant Companies

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