Dear Friend, 

Appreciating our law enforcement officers shouldn’t be reserved for one week in May; every day is an opportunity to show our support for our brave men and women in blue.

Last week, I hosted law enforcement leaders from across Minnesota’s Sixth Congressional District to talk about the challenges they face and ways we can work together to ensure our officers have the resources and support they need to effectively keep our communities safe.

One of the primary challenges raised during the discussion was a lack of resources and support available to local police departments. Many are struggling to afford the basic protective equipment needed to help ensure officer safety. This is unacceptable; we must do more to ensure our law enforcement officers have the resources they need to keep officers safe while on duty. 

Following the riots of 2020, the “defund the police” movement, and persistent ambush-style attacks, recruiting and retaining qualified law enforcement officers remains a challenge. The demanding nature of life in law enforcement, combined with increased public hostility, makes it difficult to attract and retain talented individuals.

Another topic of discussion was the importance of providing mental health resources for law enforcement officers. These men and women risk their lives to keep us safe. Studies have shown that law enforcement officers suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder and depression at levels twice as high as the average person.

In our home state, we’ve witnessed the real dangers our peace officers face. Last spring, we lost Pope County Sheriff’s Deputy Josh Owen, who was shot and killed while in the line of duty. His name was added to the National Law Enforcement Memorial in Washington, D.C. this year. In February of 2024, Burnsville Police Officers Matthew Ruge and Paul Elmstrand and Firefighter-Paramedic Adam Finseth were killed while responding to a call. We will never forget these heroes. 

In Congress, I’m leading an effort to provide funding for the Law Enforcement Mental Health and Wellness Act Program, to ensure in the face of tragedy and hardship, our law enforcement has support. This important initiative provides resources and grants to law enforcement agencies to develop internal mental health and peer monitoring programs, tools for suicide prevention, and support and resources for officers’ families. 

Law enforcement officers play a fundamental role in maintaining the safety and stability of our communities. We must show our respect and appreciation for their service, not just during National Police Week, but every day.

Sincerely, 

This mailing was prepared using official funds authorized by the U.S. House of Representatives.
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