U.S. Reps. Bill Johnson (R-OH) and Dan Newhouse (R-WA) introduced a resolution designed to provide members of Congress with personal insight into what America’s police officers deal with on a daily basis in their nationwide fight against crime.
Rep. Johnson on May 13 sponsored the Congress Observing Police Service Resolution, House Resolution (H.Res.) 1115, also known as the COPS Resolution, with four original Republican cosponsors, including Rep. Newhouse.
“Having the opportunity to witness first-hand the challenges that law enforcement encounters every day is a vital step towards bridging the divide between supporters of those in the blue uniform and the “Defund the Police” movement,” said Rep. Bill Johnson. “The COPS Resolution will allow members of Congress to see firsthand the important work our men and women in uniform do to keep our communities and neighborhoods safe.”
If enacted, H.Res. 1115 would require each member of the U.S. House of Representatives to serve one shift in a passenger seat of a law enforcement vehicle observing the work day of a local law enforcement officer, according to the text of the resolution. Each congressional member would be required to serve one shift during each session of Congress.
“Witnessing the day-to-day demands our law enforcement officers face has given me a much clearer understanding of the public safety issues plaguing our communities, as well as the obstacles our officers face, making me a better lawmaker,” Rep. Newhouse said. “Every member of Congress should have this same experience.”
Rep. Newhouse added that H.Res. 1115 also would help “bridge the divide between lawmakers and our law enforcement officers, instilling respect for the role our men and women in blue play in protecting our communities, and helping our lawmakers be better advocates for our law enforcement community.”
If a House member failed to conduct a ride-along, he or she would be fined $200, according to the text of the resolution, which is now under consideration in the U.S. House Committee on House Administration.