H.R.309 - National Law Enforcement Officers Remembrance, Support and Community Outreach Act. (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.309, the "National Law Enforcement Officers Remembrance, Support and Community Outreach Act," aims to authorize the Secretary of the Interior to provide funding for the National Law Enforcement Museum. The bill seeks to support the museum's operations, community outreach, public education, and officer safety and wellness programs. It authorizes appropriations of $6,000,000 annually for seven fiscal years, with a provision for the Secretary to transfer funds from the National Park Service if necessary.
Expected Effects
If enacted, H.R.309 would provide dedicated federal funding to the National Law Enforcement Museum. This would likely enhance the museum's ability to honor fallen officers, educate the public, and promote officer safety. The funding could also lead to expanded outreach programs and improved resources for law enforcement agencies.
Potential Benefits
- Enhanced Public Education: The bill supports the development of resources to promote understanding of law enforcement history and officer safety.
- Community Outreach: Funding will help the museum engage with communities and foster better understanding between law enforcement and the public.
- Officer Safety and Wellness: The act aims to reduce line-of-duty deaths and injuries through education and training programs.
- Memorialization of Fallen Officers: The bill supports the memorialization of law enforcement heroes who die in the line of duty.
- Increased Accessibility: Free admission for active/retired officers and families of fallen officers, plus dedicated free hours for the public.
Potential Disadvantages
- Increased Federal Spending: The bill authorizes $6,000,000 in appropriations annually for seven years, increasing federal spending.
- Potential for Misallocation of Funds: There is a risk that funds could be mismanaged or used for purposes other than those intended.
- Dependence on Federal Funding: The museum may become overly reliant on federal funding, potentially affecting its long-term sustainability if funding is reduced or eliminated in the future.
- Opportunity Cost: The funds allocated to this bill could potentially be used for other pressing needs or programs.
- Limited Scope: The bill focuses primarily on supporting the National Law Enforcement Museum, potentially overlooking other important aspects of law enforcement support and community outreach.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the general welfare clause of the Constitution, as it aims to promote public safety and foster positive relationships between law enforcement and communities. Specifically, the preamble of the Constitution states the goal to "insure domestic Tranquility" and "promote the general Welfare". The bill's focus on supporting law enforcement and enhancing community understanding could be seen as contributing to these goals. 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).