[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 82 (Thursday, May 15, 2025)]
[House]
[Page H2082]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




    HONORING LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS IN CALIFORNIA'S 25th DISTRICT

  (Mr. RUIZ asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 
minute and to revise and extend his remarks.)
  Mr. RUIZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today during National Police Week to 
honor the bravery, sacrifice, and service of law enforcement officers 
across California's 25th District and our Nation.
  I thank every officer in my district, from city departments to county 
and Federal agencies, for putting their lives on the line to keep our 
communities safe.
  On May 2, the 17th Annual Imperial Valley Law Enforcement Memorial 
Ceremony brought our community together in El Centro to remember the 49 
officers who made the ultimate sacrifice in their service to the 
Imperial Valley.
  This week, the Riverside County Sheriff's Office held its own 
memorial, recommitting to their mission to protect and serve. This is a 
sad reminder that each day police and first responders make the 
ultimate sacrifice for their communities.
  That is why Congress needs to do more to support officers and their 
surviving families. We must pass my legislation, the Heroes Lesley 
Zerebny and Gilbert Vega First Responders Survivors Support Act, which 
increases and improves access to financial and educational benefits for 
the families of the fallen or disabled officers.
  Let's honor our officers not just with words but with meaningful 
actions that support their well-being and their family's well-being and 
safety.

                          ____________________