Dear John,

Police departments across the country are facing workforce shortages due to a number of factors, including the radical “defund the police movement” leading to an increase in early retirements and a new workforce that does not feel supported in pursuing a career in criminal justice. Congress has an opportunity to empower young people who are looking to their futures and want to serve their communities.

This week, I reintroduced the Law Enforcement Education Grant Program Act with Rep. Pete Stauber (MN-08) and Rep. Clay Higgins (LA-3). 

Unlike broad-stroke student loan forgiveness programs, this bill is a targeted approach to specifically invest in well-trained and highly educated police officers at a time when our country desperately needs it. It provides education grants to students pursuing their first degree in a law enforcement or criminal justice-related field. The grant would come with a service agreement from the recipient to serve as a full-time law enforcement officer for four years within an eight-year period of completing their studies. If the graduate does not complete their service agreement, the grant will be converted into a loan.   

I am proud to introduce this legislation to encourage young people to join the next generation of law enforcement, and will continue to prioritize our police officers and the safety of our communities.

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Michelle Fischbach is a wife, mom, grandma, attorney, and the U.S. Representative for Minnesota’s Seventh Congressional District. Get updates from Rep. Fischbach’s congressional office on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

Sincerely,

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