Congresswoman Ann Wagner announced on Apr. 29 the introduction of the Local Law Enforcement Support Act, a bill aimed at providing greater flexibility for state and local police departments in how they use federal funds. Wagner was joined by Congressman John Rutherford, Co-Chair of the House Law Enforcement Caucus, in introducing the legislation.
The proposed bill seeks to address varying needs among police departments by allowing them to allocate resources toward training, recruitment, protective equipment, forensic technologies, and victim services. Wagner said this approach would help law enforcement better serve communities. “I will always stand with our brave men and women in blue. Our local law enforcement officers put their lives on the line every day to protect our communities, and I have been proud to work with them to make sure they have the resources they need to keep Missouri families safe. Each police department faces different challenges, and my bill will ensure they have the tools necessary to support officers, help victims, and put criminals behind bars,” said Congresswoman Ann Wagner (MO-02). “The Working Families Tax Cut legislation provided a generational investment in law enforcement nationwide, and my Local Law Enforcement Support Act will give state and local police departments greater flexibility to use these funds in the way they know best.”
Rutherford also emphasized departmental differences: “Every local law enforcement department is different and has distinct needs,” said Congressman John H. Rutherford (FL-05). “As a former sheriff and lifelong law enforcement officer… Flexibility gives them the opportunity to invest where they need it most, and in turn helps keep our officers and communities safe.”
Local law enforcement organizations expressed support for the measure. Joe Patterson of the St. Louis County Police Association stated: “On behalf of the men and women of the St. Louis County Police Association… The LLESA will allow agencies to continue to meet the needs of our officers and people they serve.” The Missouri Police Chiefs Legislative Coalition also endorsed it: “Our ongoing efforts… rely on specialized teams such as Drug Task Forces that combat illicit narcotics… We commend our lawmakers for answering our call for assistance,” according to its Executive Board.
Several national organizations back this legislation as well—including Missouri Sheriffs Association; Major County Sheriffs of America; Major Cities Chiefs Association; National Sheriffs Association; International Association of Chiefs of Police; Association of State Criminal Investigative Agencies; National Narcotic Officers Associations Coalition; National High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Directors Association.
Wagner has represented Missouri’s 2nd district since 2013 according to her biography. She succeeded Todd Akin that year as reported by Wikipedia. Born in St Louis in 1962, she currently resides in Ballwin according to public records. She graduated from University of Missouri with a Bachelor’s degree in 1984 as noted by her alma mater.
