John Boozman
01/15/2025 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 01/15/2025 11:55
Boozman, Cruz Introduce Thin Blue Line Act to Support Police, First Responders
WASHINGTON--U.S. Senators John Boozman (R-AR) and Ted Cruz (R-TX) introduced the Thin Blue Line Actto increase penalties for criminals who target law enforcement. Federal law already makes the targeting, killing or attempted killing of federal law enforcement officers, judges and correctional officers an aggravating factor in the decision whether to impose the federal death penalty. The Thin Blue Line Act would expand this list to include state and local police, firefighters and other first responders.
"Our law enforcement officers put their lives at risk to serve and defend their communities," Boozman said. "I am proud to join my colleagues to stand with the men and women behind the badge when criminals choose to target them with violence simply because they are committed to enforcing our laws and maintaining order."
"Violent crimes targeting law enforcement demand immediate action. These crimes should never be tolerated. Every day, members of law enforcement risk their lives to protect our communities and they deserve the full protection of the law," said Cruz. "I am proud to introduce this common-sense legislation to ensure that acts of murder or attempted murder against law enforcement will be met with maximum penalties."
The legislation is also cosponsored by Senators John Kennedy (R-LA), Bill Hagerty (R-TN), Rick Scott (R-FL), John Hoeven (R-ND), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), Ted Budd (R-NC), Ron Johnson (R-WI) and James Lankford (R-OK).
The Thin Blue Line Act is endorsed by multiple law enforcement groups. Here's what they are saying about the bill.
"Our federal, state, and local law enforcement officers risk their lives daily to protect the citizens of this great nation. While they work tirelessly to safeguard our communities, their families remain at home, burdened with concern for their loved ones' safety. In 2024, 144 law enforcement officers tragically lost their lives in the line of duty-heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice to ensure the safety of others. The Thin Blue Line Act seeks to strengthen penalties for those who target law enforcement officers, underscoring the gravity of crimes against those who serve in these vital roles. This legislation is a powerful statement of national support, honoring their dedication to justice and reinforcing the profound respect owed to their unwavering commitment to public safety," said Federal Law Enforcement Officers Association National President Mathew Silverman.
"The Thin Blue Line Act is a vital step in ensuring those who target our public safety professionals face the full weight of justice. Law enforcement officers and first responders risk their lives daily to protect our communities, and this legislation sends a clear message that violence against them will not be tolerated. As sheriffs, we are committed to standing up for those who stand in harm's way to keep us safe," said National Sheriffs' Association President Sheriff Kieran Donahue.
"The United States Deputy Sheriff's Association is honored to support the Thin Blue Line Act. With the current atmosphere of anti-law enforcement in America this bill is a great step forward in supporting law enforcement and other first responders. These are the men and women who not only put their lives on the line every day but are dedicated to advancing their communities. The Thin Blue Line Act is a great way to support these heroes that go unnoticed every day," said United States Deputy Sheriff's Association Executive Director and National Trainer David Hinners.
"Law enforcement officers have always faced threats while on duty-it is nothing new. Although we go to work each day to protect others, within the past few years, officers have become a target for violence solely because of the uniform they wear. It should not be 'part of the job' to be a target for someone who is looking to simply kill or injure a cop. The Thin Blue Line Act aims to reduce these attacks by expanding the list of aggravating factors in death penalty determinations for those who target, kill, or attempt to kill a law enforcement or other public safety officers, which sends a clear message to those who target, kill, or attempt to kill a law enforcement or other public safety officer that they will be held accountable and punished to the fullest extent of the law," said Fraternal Order of Police National President Patrick Yoes.
"For too long, members of the NYPD and law enforcement officers across this nation have been subjected to targeted acts of violence as they work to protect life, property, and the freedoms we all hold dear. While we know that these brave men and women will continue to face threats regardless of the uniform they wear, on duty or off, active or retired, the Thin Blue Line Act sends the long-overdue message that any action to target law enforcement officers for murder or violence will be met with the harshest of penalties," said NYPD Sergeants Benevolent Association (SBA) President Vincent Vallelong.
Click here to read text of the legislation.