Sheila Jackson Lee: “I venture to say that none one of us who comes to this floor doubts that any local law enforcement, our neighbors, do…”

“I venture to say that none one of us who comes to this floor doubts that any local law enforcement, our neighbors, do any second-guessing to arrest drunk drivers, murderers, and others, and that they are held to the high calling of justice. I do not want to be associated with being mild-mannered and weak on those who would do serious harm, kill, and maim, no matter who they are. That is not this debate. This debate is whether or not this bill interferes with the legitimate enforcement of the law and whether or not it takes away the mercy that we are known for in the United States. Let me tell you why. Mr. Speaker, I include in the Record a letter from the Fraternal Order of Police--which, by no means, is shy about enforcing the law-- writing to oppose this legislation, saying that local police departments answer to local civilian government, and it is the local government which enacts statutes and ordinances. National Fraternal Order of Police, Washington, DC, 27 June 2017. Hon. Paul D. Ryan, Speaker of the House, House of Representatives, Washington, DC. Hon. Kevin O. McCarthy, Majority Leader, House of Representatives, Washington, DC. Hon. Nancy P. Pelosi, Minority Leader, House of Representatives, Washington, DC. Hon. Steny H. Hoyer, Minority Whip, House of Representatives, Washington, DC. Dear Mr.…”