Victor Fazio: “I first learned of the critical role that Byrne funding plays in rural law enforcement when sheriffs and police chiefs…”

“I first learned of the critical role that Byrne funding plays in rural law enforcement when sheriffs and police chiefs from my district came to Washington last year to participate in the development of the crime bill. In a meeting which I set up between them and Attorney General Reno, they expressed their concern over the fact that funding for the Byrne program had been gutted. The Attorney General listened and, due to her efforts and those of myself and many of my colleagues, Byrne funding was not just restored; it was significantly increased. Byrne funding is important to local law enforcement around the country. But rural America is particularly dependent on it for participation in Federal law enforcement assistance programs. Without it, Glenn, Colusa, and Yolo Counties in my district would have to do away with their narcotics task forces, leaving these communities wide open to drugs and the violence that accompanies this persistent problem. This amendment will help ensure that rural communities continue to get the attention and resources that they need--that they are not left behind.”