Dear Mr. Speaker and Representatives Jeffries, Scalise, and Clark,
I am writing on behalf of the members of the Fraternal Order of Police to urge that the House consider and pass S. 4235, the “Reauthorizing Support and Treatment for Officers in Crisis Act,” which was introduced by Senators Joshua D. Hawley (R-MO) and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI).
On 2 August, the Senate passed S. 4235 without amendment by unanimous consent. This legislation reauthorizes the “STOIC Act,” which was originally passed in 2019. The law provides for law enforcement family support services, suicide prevention programs, and mental health services for law enforcement officers. When the STOIC Act was signed into law, approximately 165 officers had committed suicide the year prior. Therefore, it is wholly evident that reauthorizing this legislation prior to the end of the year, when it is set to expire, is a vital, time-sensitive matter. Our law enforcement deserves unfettered access to life-saving resources.
On behalf of the more than 377,000 members of the Fraternal Order of Police, I urge the House to bring this bill to the floor, pass it, and send it to the President for his signature. If I can be of any help or provide additional information in support of this legislation, please do not hesitate to contact me or Executive Director Jim Pasco in our Washington, D.C. office.
Sincerely,
Patrick Yoes
National President