[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 14 (Thursday, January 23, 2025)]
[House]
[Page H309]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




       ENHANCE PENALTIES FOR ASSAULTS ON LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS

  The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Chair recognizes the gentlewoman from 
Ohio (Ms. Kaptur) for 5 minutes.
  Ms. KAPTUR. Mr. Speaker, the pardons this week of violent felons who 
attacked our Capitol, injuring 174 of our Capitol Police, were a 
sacrilege against our Republic and our Constitution. Their actions were 
an affront on decency and a violent attack on the rule of law.
  Americans nationwide are outraged. Mr. Speaker, 140 law enforcement 
officers were assaulted and 174 sustained injuries. Officer Brian 
Sicknick died.
  Those who engage in violence against law enforcement officers must be 
held accountable to the fullest extent of the law.
  I will soon introduce the Brian Sicknick Heroic Law Enforcement 
Officers Protection Act. This bill aims to strengthen penalties for 
those who assault law enforcement officers on Federal property. It 
provides enhanced support for officers injured in the line of duty.
  This legislation is named in honor of U.S. Capitol Police Officer 
Brian Sicknick. He tragically lost his life in the line of duty 
defending this Capitol on January 6, 2021. His selfless service and 
ultimate sacrifice will never be forgotten.
  My legislation will include enhanced penalties for assaults on law 
enforcement officers for individuals who assault officers on Federal 
property, with potential sentences including life imprisonment.
  It will include improved health benefits for officers. It will 
guarantee full health benefits throughout their service and retirement 
and for those injured in the line of duty, including the 140 officers 
assaulted and 174 injured on January 6, 2021.
  As one Member who was held against her will in this Capitol on 
January 6, 2021, I can guarantee you this bill deserves swift passage.
  Additionally, it will provide enhanced support for injured officers 
by providing eligible officers with access to necessary protective 
services.
  The brave men and women of law enforcement put their lives on the 
line every day to protect our communities and our Nation. This 
legislation is a necessary step toward honoring their service. It will 
ensure that they have the support they deserve and that the United 
States of America reveres them and the rule of law to which they 
dedicate their lives.

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