Dear Senators Cardin and Marshall,
I am writing on behalf of the members of the Fraternal Order of Police to advise you of our support for S. 1447, the “Bipartisan Solution to Cyclical Violence Act.”
Those who are injured as a result of criminal activity are more likely to be injured by violence again, creating a dangerous cycle. Yet, law enforcement officers are not always the best option to respond to the societal aspects that contribute to this cycle whether it be substance abuse, homelessness, mental health, or lack of employment. Finding innovative solutions to counter this troubling trend is critical, and we must explore new methods to reduce violence in our local communities.
Your legislation would address these issues in part by authorizing the U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) to select existing violence prevention or intervention programs, administered by State and local trauma centers, to receive Federal grants to expand existing programs, study the effectiveness of those programs, and examine their impacts on reincarceration and re-admittance rates. Upon the conclusion of this pilot program, each organization will be required to report their findings to HHS, which will then provide legislative recommendations to Congress. We believe this program will reduce violence in our communities and allow law enforcement to partner with a public service that is better equipped to support victims of violent crimes.
On behalf of the more than 364,000 members of the Fraternal Order of Police, I am pleased to offer our support for this legislation. If I can be of any further assistance, please do not hesitate to contact me or Executive Director Jim Pasco in our Washington office.
Sincerely,
Patrick Yoes
National President