Invest to Protect Act Will Help Hire More Police Officers at Smaller Police Departments in Mid-Michigan
WASHINGTON—Congressman Dan Kildee, Chief Deputy Whip of the House Democratic Caucus, recently voted for bipartisan legislation, supported by Republicans and Democrats, to fund local police departments and help reduce crime in mid-Michigan.
Kildee’s bill, the Invest to Protect Act, creates a new grant program to support officer recruitment, retention and other personnel costs, mental health resources for officers, as well as body cameras and other equipment. This program would specifically benefit smaller police departments—those that employ fewer than 125 officers—in Genesee, Saginaw, Bay and Midland counties, which are critical to public safety but are often left out of federal funding.
“Police are an important pillar of our society, helping to keep our neighborhoods and families safe,” Kildee said. “I’m pleased to see this bipartisan legislation increasing funding for local law enforcement pass the U.S. House of Representatives. I do not support any attempt to ‘defund’ the police, which is a ridiculous notion. I will continue to work with Republicans and Democrats to increase funding for our local police departments so they can hire and train officers.”
“Congressman Kildee is far more than an elected leader who stands for law enforcement,” said Christopher R. Swanson, Genesee County sheriff.
“He gets it done along with those with whom he serves,” Swanson added. “As the sheriff of Genesee County, I am grateful for the congressman’s work for the people.”
“I would like to thank Congressman Dan Kildee for helping pass this bill,” said Ron Wiles, former president of the Michigan Association of Chiefs of Police.
“The recruitment and retention of highly qualified police officers has been challenging,” Wiles added. “This legislation will play a significant role in helping departments meet their staffing needs so they can better serve their communities. The opportunities for training, mental health resources and equipment will not only help our dedicated officers but will help our communities stay safe and strong.”
As a part of the American Rescue Plan, Congressman Kildee helped deliver $350 billion to communities across the U.S. that can be used to fund local police departments. During the government funding process for Fiscal Year (FY) 2023, Kildee helped secure over $4.3 million for law enforcement agencies across Michigan.
