Hurd introduces bill encouraging veterans to transition to police officers

State and local law enforcement organizations that hire veterans to serve as police officers would be recognized under legislation recently introduced by U.S. Rep. Will Hurd (R-TX).

The American Law Enforcement Heroes Act, H.R. 1428, would establish preference for state and local agencies that hired veterans when considering applications for federal reimbursement grants for academy and field training.

“We owe the men and women who have fought for our freedoms the smoothest possible transition to civilian life,” said Hurd, who previously introduced similar legislation to encourage the hiring of veterans to serve as Customs and Border Protection officers. “One of the best ways we can do this is to provide outlets for these heroes to continue their service right at home.”

Hurd introduced the House bill and U.S. Sen. John Cornyn (R-TX) introduced a Senate version of the bill in response to a meeting with leaders of the San Antonio police force in October.

“Not only are we providing an occupational service to vets, but we are funneling trained professionals to police departments and making our communities safer,” Hurd said. “The American Law Enforcement Heroes Act will be a win for communities nationwide.”

Men and women from the military are equipped with valuable skills, Cornyn said, and encouraging local law enforcement to hire veterans could strengthen communities and ease the transition to civilian life.

“I am proud of this bipartisan effort to pair our nation’s heroes with meaningful jobs around the country that allow them to continue to serve and protect,” Cornyn said.