This was National Police Week and much of the work in Washington, D.C., focused on meeting with law enforcement and voting on legislation to help law enforcement professionals do their jobs. But overall, it was a chance for all of us to take a moment to honor the brave officers who work every day to keep our communities safe. We remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice and thank all officers and their families across Kansas and the nation for their service and dedication.
National Police Week is a special time to honor all who wear the badge, especially those who have made the ultimate sacrifice. I had the opportunity to pay my respects to Officer Scott Heimann, Officer Hunter Simoncic, Deputy Brandon Gaede, and Deputy Elijah Ming, all of whom were killed in the line of duty protecting Kansans last year. Thank you to all in law enforcement who put their lives on the line every day to keep our communities safe.
In a legislative win, the House passed my bipartisan Criminal History Access Act to strengthen background checks for law enforcement officers. This commonsense bill gives state Peace Officer Standards and Training agencies access to the criminal history information they need to properly screen and certify officers – helping maintain professionalism and public confidence in law enforcement. I was proud to work with Congresswoman Deborah Ross from North Carolina on this legislation, and I look forward to the Senate voting on this bill soon.
I’m proud to cosponsor legislation that protects businesses and communities from retail crime. The Combating Organized Retail Crime Act, which passed the House this week, expands federal enforcement of criminal offenses related to organized retail and supply-chain crime. Retail crime affects everyone, and addressing it requires strong partnerships with law enforcement.
I had the privilege of giving members of Kansas Concerns of Police Survivors (C.O.P.S.) an evening tour of the Capitol. Kansas C.O.P.S. does incredible work supporting the families of law enforcement officers killed in the line of duty by providing emotional support, resources, and a strong community during difficult times. I’m grateful for all they do to honor the fallen and care for those left behind.
The House passed the Nationwide Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act, which will allow — not mandate — the year-round sale of E15 gasoline. This will open additional markets for Kansas farmers, keep money in Kansas by adding value to corn, and give retailers the certainty they need to expand the offering of E15, which can cost significantly less per gallon than E10. I was proud to work with Kansas farm organizations and my colleagues as a cosponsor of this bill and hope the Senate will soon take it up and send it to President Trump’s desk.
We also passed funding for Military Construction and Veterans Affairs for next year, investing $157 billion in military infrastructure and mandatory programs. This legislation fully funds veterans’ health care and benefits, sustains support for research and mental health programs, and provides $2 billion for improvements to VA medical facilities and four national cemeteries. Our veterans and service members deserve nothing less.
