Congressman Troy E. Nehls announced on May 13 that he has written an op-ed in The Washington Reporter to honor National Police Week and discuss his bipartisan legislation, the National Law Enforcement Remembrance, Support, and Community Outreach Act.
Nehls said the week is a time to recognize law enforcement officers who risk their lives for public safety. He described a memorial wall outside his office honoring fallen officers and expressed concern about how police are sometimes treated in society.
“During National Police Week, we honor the brave men and women in blue who risk everything to protect our communities. As a former Sheriff with generations of family members who have served in law enforcement, this week especially reminds me of the profound sacrifices our officers make,” Nehls said. He continued: “Right outside my office is an End of Watch wall I began the day I entered Congress. It honors every fallen officer killed in the line of duty and is sadly updated nearly every day. Each name is a heartbreaking reminder of the cost of keeping us safe. It is shameful that those who protect us are too often disrespected or taken for granted in our society.”
Nehls also pointed to recent declines in crime rates as evidence that strong leadership supports law enforcement efforts: “Thanks to President Donald J. Trump’s return to the White House and strong Republican leadership in Congress, we are restoring law and order, and the numbers prove it.” He cited data showing lower homicide rates nationwide over recent years.
The congressman highlighted his proposed legislation, which would provide federal grants for programs supporting officer safety, wellness, community outreach, and education through partnerships with organizations like the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund (NLEOMF). “My bill has over 120 cosponsors from both sides of the aisle,” Nehls said.
Nehls has represented Texas’s 22nd District since replacing Pete Olson in 2021; he was born in Beaver Dam, Wisconsin in 1968 and currently resides in Richmond,according to Wikipedia. In previous elections since 2020 he has won by significant margins against Democratic opponents,according to Ballotpedia.
He concluded his op-ed by urging Congress to pass his bill: “I urge Congress to pass my legislation swiftly and send a strong message to law enforcement across the country that they finally have leaders in Washington, D.C., who stand with them, not against them… This National Police Week and every week after, let’s show our appreciation. When you see a police officer, be sure to say ‘thank you.'”
