Senate approves Tillis’ bipartisan American Law Enforcement SAVER Act

The U.S. Senate recently approved a bipartisan bill offered by U.S. Sen. Thom Tillis (R-NC) to provide law enforcement officers with quality trauma kits that could be used during emergencies.

“As a strong supporter of our brave men and women in law enforcement, I was proud to co-introduce this legislation, which would equip law enforcement with the tools they need to keep our communities safe,” Sen. Tillis said on Dec. 21.

The American Law Enforcement Sustaining Aid and Vital Emergency Resources (SAVER) Act, S. 2644, which Sen. Tillis cosponsored on July 27 with fellow original cosponsor U.S. Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), received unanimous approval on Nov. 29 from the Senate. The U.S. House of Representatives received the bill on Dec. 5 for consideration.

“Ensuring law enforcement officers have effective trauma kits will save countless lives,” said Sen. Tillis. “I am proud the American Law Enforcement SAVER Act passed the Senate and look forward to quick passage in the House to ensure our law enforcement agencies have the resources they need.”

If enacted, S. 2644 would establish baseline standards in consultation with law enforcement and medical professionals for trauma kits purchased using grant funding under the Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant program, according to a bill summary provided by Sen. Tillis’ staff.

Additionally, the measure would require that optional best practices be developed to train police officers on using trauma kits and require that the kits be deployed and maintained in vehicles and government facilities, the summary says.

The legislation is supported by the Fraternal Order of Police, the National Association of Police Organizations, the Sergeants Benevolent Association of the New York Police Department, the Federal Law Enforcement Officers Association, and the Major Cities Chiefs Association, among numerous other entities.