John Rutherford: “I thank my friend for yielding time. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of the Law Enforcement Officers Safety Act.…”

“I thank my friend for yielding time. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of the Law Enforcement Officers Safety Act. This LEOSA Reform Act will expand the ability of qualified officers, whether active, retired, or no longer in law enforcement, to carry concealed firearms in any State or territory, regardless of State or local laws. If we trust our law enforcement officers to carry guns while they are wearing a badge, why wouldn't we trust them to carry one on State and Federal property in their retirement? There is no one better trained and equipped to safely use and carry these firearms. In fact, we encourage our officers at the State and local level to carry their firearms when they are off duty because they are never off duty. {time} 1345 They are always required to respond if an incident occurs in their presence. Officers carry off-duty anyway, but what this does is expand that protective force multiplier concept to the entire country. I don't see what is wrong with that. In fact, I think it makes good sense that we would want good men and women who are qualified to carry firearms to protect those who do not. This bill also gives retired officers more flexibility in the timing of their firearms recertification, reducing unnecessary burdens while ensuring that they are still properly trained in firearm proficiency. They must remain proficient.…”