COPS Grants Expanded: Higher Pay and More Officers for Rural Communities.
This law changes the rules for COPS grants, allowing local governments to use these federal funds to increase police officer salaries and hire more personnel. The goal is to enhance public safety, particularly in lower-income and rural areas, by ensuring local police forces are better compensated and more reflective of their communities. Furthermore, smaller jurisdictions gain easier access to grant money previously allocated to larger cities.
Key points
Officer Compensation Increase: Federal grants can now be used to raise the wages of law enforcement officers, especially in low-income jurisdictions, aiding recruitment and retention efforts.
Increased Support for Rural Areas: Smaller and poorer rural communities qualify for a higher federal funding share (up to 90%) for hiring new officers.
Focus on Diversity: The act encourages police agencies to actively recruit officers who reflect the demographic diversity and values of the communities they serve.
Funding Flexibility: Unused grant funds initially set aside for large cities can now be reallocated to support the needs of smaller communities.
Expired
Citizen Poll