Law Enforcement Officers Equity Act

To:  U.S. Congress - President

I am writing in support of 'The Law Enforcement Officers Equity Act.' The purpose of this bill is simply stated: give law enforcement status to law enforcement officers!

Many federal officials--for example, the Border Patrol--are classified as 'law enforcement officers,' a classification that comes with certain salary and retirement benefits. But many other officers, officers who are trained to carry weapons, who wear body armor, who face the same daily risks as 'law enforcement officers' are not classified. These other officers are also the same officers who enforce federal, state and local laws.

As federal officers, we make arrests, and risk our lives protecting others. We are routinely threatened and assaulted in the line of duty...our officers have been beaten, stabbed, shot, and even killed. At retirement, however, we are not recognized as 'law enforcement officers.' We are only truly recognized as 'law enforcement officers' when our names are placed on the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial...after losing our lives in the line of duty.

Aside from correcting the inequity for officers and their families, the bill's passage would help stem the tide of officers leaving our ranks to receive the recognition that local police agencies provide. The turnover we experience is costly in terms of training costs, and the lack of law enforcement retirement also prevents the attainment of the young and vigorous force needed on this job.

As federal officers we drive marked police vehicles with law enforcement emergency lights and sirens. While performing our duties, we carry a firearm; wear bullet-resistant body armor; and wear a uniform that while deterring some...serves as a target to others. We conduct preliminary investigations, and respond to robberies, burglaries, and other emergencies. Also, as we drive between federal facilities, we are often called upon to assist local police, and persons in need off federal property.
As an officer, we are held to a higher standard than others...a law enforcement standard.

I call on you today to recognize the unique and very hazardous work that is performed daily by all federal law enforcement officers, by bringing fairness to the existing law. Please show your support for law enforcement...co-sponsor 'The Law Enforcement Officers Equity Act.'

I thank you for your continued support to all of our men and women, serving in the law enforcement officer uniform.

Sincerely,

The Undersigned

The Law Enforcement Officers Equity Act Petition to U.S. Congress - President was created by Federal Law Enforcement Officers and written by Kevin Thompson (datfas003@aol.com).  This petition is hosted here at www.PetitionOnline.com as a public service. There is no endorsement of this petition, express or implied, by Artifice, Inc. or our sponsors. For technical support please use our simple Petition Help form.