By Tri-County News: Serving Eden Valley, Kimball, Watkins, and surrounding communities
On Thursday, Nov. 30, Rep. Michelle Fischbach (MN-07) reintroduced the Law Enforcement Education Grant Program Act with Rep. Pete Stauber (MN-08) and Rep. Clay Higgins (LA-3).
“Unfortunately, police forces across the country are facing workforce shortages, and Congress has an opportunity to support young people who are looking to their futures and want to serve their communities,” said Congresswoman Fischbach. “Unlike broad-stroke student loan forgiveness programs, the Law Enforcement Education Grant Program Act provides a targeted approach to specifically invest in well-trained and highly educated police officers at a time when our country desperately needs it. I am proud to introduce this legislation to encourage young people to join the next generation of law enforcement.”
The Congresswoman thanks Reps. Stauber and Higgins for co-sponsoring this piece of legislation.
“As a former police officer, I know that a properly staffed and trained police force is necessary to keep our communities safe. Unfortunately, the law enforcement community is struggling to recruit new officers …. By improving education benefits and recruiting through the establishment of the Law Enforcement Education Grant Program, interested recruits will have a new incentive to join the police force and will be better prepared to serve and defend our communities. I’m proud to join Congresswoman Fischbach in sponsoring this legislation,” said Congressman Pete Stauber.
“I will always stand with my Brothers and Sisters of the Thin Blue Line. This pro-law enforcement bill is critical in assisting the retention and recruitment of officers,” said Congressman Clay Higgins.
Background: This legislation would encourage young men and women to consider a career in law enforcement. The bill provides education grants to students pursuing their first degree in a law enforcement or criminal justice-related field. The grant would come with a service agreement from the recipient to serve as a full-time law enforcement officer for four years within an eight-year period of completing their studies. If the graduate does not complete their service agreement the grant will be converted into a loan.
