In recent years, violent crime rates have surged, hostility towards public safety officers has skyrocketed, and wildfires continue to rage. Despite their unwavering dedication, our first responders feel under supported and unappreciated, which is why this First Responder Month, it is more important than ever for us to give them the recognition they deserve. According to the Department of Commerce, there are roughly 4.6 million first responders serving in the United States, and it is our responsibility to thank them for their significant contributions and support them in their work.
Those of us who live in Central Washington understand all too well how catastrophic wildfires can be to our area, but did you know almost 40% of fire departments in Washington state are volunteer-based? These men and women put their lives on the line to protect our homes, businesses, and communities throughout wildfire season of their own accord. I am committed to continuing my work with local officials to ensure our first responders have the resources they need to prepare for, prevent, and recover from these natural disasters.
The past few years have been brutal on our law enforcement. Widespread calls to defund the police led to widespread chaos and skyrocketing rates of fatal and non-fatal drug overdoses and a rise in crime have made the job of our officers beyond difficult. Our men and women in blue stand between lawlessness and order in our communities, and it is critical we recognize them for their bravery.
This week is National Police Week, and House Republicans will be voting on numerous pieces of legislation to support law and order. H.R. 7581, the Improving Law Enforcement Officer Safety and Wellness Through Data Act, will require the Attorney General to address violent attacks on our law enforcement officers and implement new reporting measures so we can better counteract our crime crisis. I am also a proud co-sponsor of H.R. 354, the LEOSA Reform Act, which would expand concealed carrying privileges for active and retired law enforcement. In an emergency situation, our law enforcement officers should have the correct tools and authority to protect people from hostile situations—whether on or off-duty. In a life-or-death situation, we should be able to rely on a good guy with a gun to deter a bad guy with one.
There are all kinds of first responders we need to recognize outside of firefighters and police officers, which is why last week I introduced a resolution to designate the month of May as National First Responder Month. I thank all full time, part time, and volunteer responders, for their dedication to Central Washington and their heroism in the line of duty.
