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The Urgent Call for the Protect and Serve Act

In recent years, the profession of policing has been increasingly perilous, with officers more likely than ever to face fatal encounters, ambushes, or assaults merely for performing their duties. Recent statistics reveal an alarming trend; in the past year alone, over 85,730 law enforcement officers were assaulted in the United States, setting a grim new record over the last decade, according to data from the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).

In light of these unsettling developments, the National Police Association (NPA) has intensified its advocacy efforts, renewing its support for the Protect and Serve Act of 2025 (S. 167 / H.R. 1551). This pivotal bipartisan legislative proposal, co-sponsored by Senate member Thom Tillis from North Carolina and House member John Rutherford from Florida, seeks to empower federal prosecutors to take a stronger stance against those who deliberately target police officers with violence.

The Protect and Serve Act introduces a new federal offense aimed at individuals who intentionally inflict harm on police officers across federal, state, or local jurisdictions. Offenders convicted of causing severe injury to an officer could face a maximum imprisonment term of ten years, while those who kill, attempt to kill, or kidnap officers may confront a potential life sentence. This legislative move aims to deliver a clear message: targeting police officers for violence will attract serious legal consequences.

Legislative Director for the NPA, Paula Fitzsimmons, emphasizes the critical need for this legislation, stating, "The Protect and Serve Act is not just a law; it’s a necessary response to a crisis affecting law enforcement. Since its initial introduction in Congress in 2018, countless law enforcement officers have found themselves ambushed or assaulted solely due to their roles in society. This bill is overdue, and we must send a strong signal that such violations will not be tolerated."

The NPA extends its heartfelt gratitude to both Senator Tillis and Representative Rutherford for their continued commitment to the protection of police officers through the introduction of this significant bill. The organization believes the Protect and Serve Act will serve as a necessary deterrent to those who might consider breaching legal boundaries and will hold offenders accountable for their actions against law enforcement personnel.

In addition to the legislative advocacy, the NPA urges Congress members to prioritize the Protect and Serve Act by promptly scheduling hearings in the Judiciary Committee. In a time when law enforcement officials work tirelessly to ensure public safety, they too deserve robust protections against those who may attempt to harm them.

The Protect and Serve Act is a critical step toward not only protecting police officers but also reaffirming our society's commitment to safeguarding those who dedicate their lives to public service. The issues at hand demand immediate action, as failure to address them may lead to further deterioration of the safety and security enjoyed by both law enforcement and the communities they serve. As we navigate through these challenging times, acting decisively is paramount to fostering a safer environment for all.

Conclusion

The continued rise in violence against police officers calls for urgent and proactive measures. With the Protect and Serve Act of 2025, there is hope that the tide can be turned, allowing officers to work without the fear of unwarranted assault. The National Police Association remains steadfast in advocating for this crucial project, highlighting the need for our lawmakers to take swift action in ensuring that those who shield us are also shielded themselves. For more information on the ongoing efforts, visit NationalPolice.org.