Show-Me State Times

U.S. Senators Josh Hawley and Mark Kelly have introduced the Educational and Career Opportunities for Public Safety (EdCOPS) Act, a bipartisan initiative aimed at addressing staffing shortages in law enforcement. The proposed legislation seeks to provide educational benefits to public safety officers and their dependents.

"There is no profession more honorable than one that keeps our streets safe. Our men and women in uniform deserve Congress’ full support. I’m proud to co-sponsor legislation this National Police Week and prove to law enforcement that we have their back every step of the way," said Senator Hawley.

Senator Kelly, reflecting on his personal connection to law enforcement through his parents, emphasized the urgency of the issue: "As the son of two police officers, I know how important it is to have experienced, trusted officers on the job. But right now, law enforcement agencies across the country are struggling to recruit qualified candidates and losing the people who know their communities best."

The EdCOPS Act proposes financial assistance for higher education as an incentive for public safety officers who have served at least eight years with a single employer and commit to an additional four years of service. Officers would also be able to transfer unused educational benefits to their dependents.

This legislative effort comes amidst what is described as a historic crisis in hiring and retaining qualified law enforcement personnel nationwide.