S.911 - Chief Herbert D. Proffitt Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
The Chief Herbert D. Proffitt Act of 2025 (S.911) amends the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of 1968 to include certain retired law enforcement officers in the Public Safety Officers' Death Benefits (PSO) program. This bill expands eligibility for death benefits to retired officers who die or become permanently disabled as a direct result of a targeted attack due to their prior service.
The amendment applies retroactively to January 1, 2012, for actions taken against retired officers. This ensures that officers who have been targeted in the past are also covered under this expanded benefit.
Expected Effects
The primary effect of this bill is to provide financial support to the families of retired law enforcement officers who are victims of targeted attacks related to their service. It extends the existing PSO benefits to a previously excluded group, acknowledging the ongoing risks faced by retired officers.
This will likely increase the number of claims filed under the PSO program. It may also incentivize more retired officers to report threats or attacks.
Potential Benefits
- Provides financial security to the families of retired law enforcement officers who are killed or disabled in targeted attacks.
- Recognizes the continued risk faced by retired officers due to their past service.
- Offers retroactive benefits, addressing past injustices.
- May encourage retired officers to report threats and attacks, potentially improving overall safety.
- Reinforces the government's commitment to supporting law enforcement personnel, even after retirement.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential increase in the financial burden on the Bureau of Justice Assistance due to increased claims.
- Possible challenges in determining eligibility, specifically proving that an attack was directly related to the officer's prior service.
- Could create a perception of unequal treatment if other retired public servants are not afforded similar benefits.
- May lead to fraudulent claims, requiring increased oversight and investigation.
- Limited impact on broader public safety or crime reduction efforts.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the Constitution's general welfare clause, as it aims to provide support to a specific group of public servants and their families. While there is no specific constitutional provision mandating such benefits, the expansion of the Public Safety Officers' Death Benefits program can be seen as a reasonable measure to support those who have served in law enforcement. 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).