Political Quotes

“It is clear everybody supports this legislation. All of my police departments, all of my sheriffs, all support this legislation. I urge my colleagues to pass the Law Enforcement De-Escalation Training Act, a bill I am proud to co-lead with my friend, Los Angeles' new mayor, Karen Bass. By funding improved training for police calls involving individuals suffering from mental or behavioral health issues, we make our communities safer. Up to 10 percent of all police encounters involve a person experiencing serious mental health issues. This bill will equip our officers with skills that better secure the safety of our citizens and our first responders. That is what matters. De-escalation improves the trust between law enforcement and the community they are sworn to protect. That is what matters. Building safer communities and protecting lives. That is what matters. After passing unanimously in the Senate, this effort deserves similar support in the House. I thank Senators Cornyn and Whitehouse, and Representatives Bass, Chabot, and Issa for their leadership on this bill. The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. Levin of Michigan). The time of the gentleman has expired.”