[Congressional Record Volume 167, Number 83 (Thursday, May 13, 2021)]
[House]
[Page H2276]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                 RESPECTING SERVICE OF FIRST RESPONDERS

  (Mr. BILIRAKIS asked and was given permission to address the House 
for 1 minute and to revise and extend his remarks.)
  Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to acknowledge National 
Police Week.
  There have been 124 police officers killed in the line of duty this 
year, unfortunately, including two of my constituents, Deputy Michael 
Magli and Master Patrol Officer Jesse Madsen.
  I went to the funeral services of our heroes, Mr. Speaker, and shared 
the anguish of their loved ones. They leave behind a distinguished 
legacy of service and sacrifice that deserves to be honored.
  This week, I was proud to cosponsor legislation that would increase 
penalties for crimes targeting law enforcement and strengthen funding 
for law enforcement programs.
  Law enforcement has faced unrelenting political attacks as part of 
the defund the police movement. This is a dangerous proposition that 
has already proven to leave communities less safe. I respect, of 
course, the service and sacrifices of our first responders, and I will 
continue to support them.

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