Show-Me State Times

U.S. Senators Josh Hawley and Sheldon Whitehouse have reintroduced the Supporting and Treating Officers in Crisis (STOIC) Act, aiming to expand support resources for law enforcement officers. The bill, which has bipartisan backing, is also cosponsored by Senators Richard Blumenthal, Mazie Hirono, Christopher Coons, and Chuck Grassley.

The legislation seeks to reauthorize grant funding for family-support services within law enforcement agencies. It also aims to establish suicide-prevention programs and mental health services specifically tailored for law enforcement communities.

Senator Hawley emphasized the importance of the bill by stating, "Congress should have the backs of those who have ours. Since its initial passage, the STOIC Act has delivered life-saving resources to law enforcement officers who combat not only crime but also mental health challenges in the line of duty."

Senator Whitehouse added his perspective on the need for such legislation: "Law enforcement are often the first on the scene at the most difficult moments in people’s lives. Their service comes with a heavy emotional toll, and we must help officers deal with the stress and trauma they bear to keep their communities safe."

Originally introduced in 2019 by Senators Hawley and Whitehouse, the STOIC Act was signed into law later that year. In its previous iteration, it passed unanimously through both the Senate Judiciary Committee and a Senate-wide vote.

With this reintroduction, Senators Hawley and Whitehouse aim to facilitate its updated passage during the 119th Congress.

The full text of the bill is available for public viewing.