In mid-September, the administration proposed a plan that includes $5 billion for “first responder stabilization.” The plan allocates $4 billion for the Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) program for hiring, rehiring, or retaining law enforcement officers. The plan also includes $1 billion for Department of Homeland Security grants for hiring, rehiring, or retaining fire fighters.

The IACP is very supportive of the COPS program, as it has proven to strengthen the ability of law enforcement agencies to combat crime and violence in our communities.