H.R.1236 - Chief Herbert D. Proffitt Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R. 1236, the Chief Herbert D. Proffitt Act of 2025, aims to amend the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of 1968. The amendment expands the Public Safety Officers' Death Benefits program to include certain retired law enforcement officers. Specifically, it provides benefits to officers who die or become permanently disabled as a direct result of targeted attacks due to their service.
Expected Effects
This bill, if enacted, will provide financial support to retired law enforcement officers and their families in cases of targeted attacks resulting in death or disability. It also applies retroactively to incidents occurring on or after August 28, 2012, addressing pending cases and future claims.
Potential Benefits
- Provides financial assistance to retired law enforcement officers and their families who are victims of targeted attacks.
- Recognizes the ongoing risks faced by retired officers due to their prior service.
- Offers retroactive benefits for incidents occurring after August 28, 2012, addressing existing grievances.
- May improve morale among current and retired law enforcement officers.
- Aligns with the principle of supporting those who have served the public.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential increase in costs associated with the Public Safety Officers' Death Benefits program.
- Possible challenges in determining eligibility and proving the direct link between the injury/death and the officer's prior service.
- Could create disparities if other categories of public servants are not similarly covered.
- May lead to increased litigation related to benefit claims.
- Potential for fraudulent claims, requiring robust verification processes.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the general welfare clause of the Constitution (Preamble), as it aims to provide support to public servants who have dedicated their careers to law enforcement. Congress has the power to enact legislation necessary and proper for carrying into execution the foregoing powers, as per Article I, Section 8. The bill does not appear to infringe upon any specific constitutional rights or limitations.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).