[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 82 (Thursday, May 14, 2026)]
[House]
[Page H3470]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




           NATIONAL POLICE WEEK AND THE COPS REAUTHORIZATION

  (Mr. WHITESIDES asked and was given permission to address the House 
for 1 minute and to revise and extend his remarks.)
  Mr. WHITESIDES. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to call for the 
reauthorization of the Community Oriented Policing Services Program, 
better known as the COPS Program, an effort I am proud to lead 
alongside my colleagues Representatives Harder and Rutherford.
  During National Police Week, we recognize the officers who protect 
our communities every day. When we talk about law enforcement, we 
aren't just talking about a badge or a uniform. We are talking about 
our neighbors.
  The COPS Program is vital because it helps ensure that local 
departments have the officers and the resources that they need. By 
providing funding for hiring, this program helps departments build 
stronger relationships and respond more effectively to local needs.
  It also allows officers to build trust in the communities they serve 
and be a familiar presence in neighborhood meetings, schools, and local 
events.
  Our local officers give their all because these are their homes too, 
and it is our duty to ensure they have the resources and the personnel 
they need to do their jobs effectively.
  I urge my colleagues to support this bipartisan reauthorization. 
Let's support the officers who work every day to keep us safe.

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