In a recent gathering at Buckeye City Hall, Rep. Ruben Gallego and Mayor Eric Orsborn delivered good news for local law enforcement. They celebrated a hefty increase in federal funding, which Gallego, an Arizona Democrat, secured through his congressional work. This increased budget aims to boost the safety of Arizonans across a range of communities, from the bustle of downtown Phoenix to the quiet of rural areas.
"Whether you live in downtown Phoenix, a growing community like Buckeye, or a rural county – you deserve to feel safe at home, at work, and at school. It's first responders who make that a reality, and we must have their backs," Gallego stated. The extra funds are seen by Gallego as a "smart, targeted investment," crucial for keeping residents safe throughout the state. Mayor Orsborn expressed gratitude for the additional resources, especially for a rapidly expanding city like Buckeye where federal funding plays a critical role in curbing crime and maintaining community safety.
The financial boost, greenlit in March, includes a $75 million increase for the Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) and an additional $109 million for the Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) programs. These are the two primary federal grant avenues supporting local enforcement efforts. Details on the funding and the celebratory event are available through links to recordings and photographs on Gallego's official website.
Backing his commitment to law enforcement, Rep. Gallego has a long history of supporting the blue. His voting record includes over $168 billion towards law enforcement, which encompasses $2.2 billion specifically for the COPS program. In May, he advocated for the ongoing necessity to tackle the deficit in law enforcement personnel. Gallego backed the bipartisan Strong Communities Act to strengthen the rapport between police officers and the neighborhoods they serve. Additionally, during National Police Week 2023, Rep. Gallego supported the Invest to Protect Act, aiming to aid local police forces with training and mental health resources. This legislation puts a strong emphasis on supporting small to mid-sized departments, including those serving Tribal communities.
Moreover, earlier this year, Gallego introduced the BADGES for Native Communities Act, which is dedicated to strengthening law enforcement and enhancing safety in Indian Country. These legislative efforts and financial commitments underscore a continued push to ensure all Arizonans, regardless of their place of residence, can count on capable and well-supported law enforcement to guard their peace and security.
