Tillis cosponsors bipartisan SAVER Act to ensure standards for trauma kits

U.S. Sen. Thom Tillis (R-NC) on July 27 cosponsored a bipartisan bill that would establish standards for trauma kits purchased using funds provided under the federal Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) Program.

The American Law Enforcement Sustaining Aid and Vital Emergency Resources (SAVER) Act, S. 2644, is sponsored by U.S. Sen. John Cornyn (R-TX) and three other original cosponsors, including Sen. Tillis and U.S. Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI).

If enacted, S. 2644 would ensure law enforcement officers are equipped with quality trauma kits to respond immediately if a civilian or fellow officer experiences a traumatic injury during a call, according to a bill summary provided by Sen. Tillis’ staff.

“As a strong supporter of our brave men and women in law enforcement, I am proud to co-introduce this legislation which would equip them with the tools they need to keep our communities safe,” Sen. Tillis said. “Ensuring law enforcement officers have effective trauma kits will save countless lives and make our communities safer.”

2644 would establish baseline standards in consultation with law enforcement and medical professionals for trauma kits purchased using grant funding under JAG Program, the summary says.

Additionally, S. 2644 would require the development of optional best practices for law enforcement agencies to adapt for training personnel on how to use trauma kits and for the deployment and maintenance of the kits in vehicles and government facilities, states the summary.

The measure is endorsed by numerous national, state, and local organizations, including the Fraternal Order of Police, the National Association of Police Organizations, the Sergeants Benevolent Association NYPD, the Federal Law Enforcement Officers Association, the Major Cities Chiefs Association, the Major County Sheriffs of America, and the National Criminal Justice Association, among others.

The bill has been referred to the U.S. Senate Judiciary Committee for consideration.