Each May, National Police Week is an occasion to express our appreciation and support for the officers who promote safety and order in our communities. Most law enforcement is conducted by city police, sheriff’s departments, highway patrol, or other state agencies close to home. In Congress, I partner with these officials to provide funding and other assistance.

Federal Grants Support Mississippi Police

Early this year, I announced a series of federal grants for Mississippi police departments and law enforcement education programs. These funds go toward new technology—from regular office equipment to specialized law enforcement tools. They also help departments with fleet upgrades, so our police forces can drive vehicles that are able to withstand constant use and wear-and-tear.

In some communities, police offices have received support for crime prevention initiatives, including one specifically designed to help keep young people from choosing criminal activity. These funds will also help train the next generation of law enforcement professionals. The Forensic Science Institute and Digital Forensics Lab at Mississippi State University and the Training for Justice System Professionals program at the University of Mississippi each received support. I regularly advocate for these grants and am continuing to do so in this year’s appropriations process.

FirstNet Connects Response Teams

Another way the federal government can back law enforcement is by providing communication service for emergency responders—especially in rural areas. For too long, first responders faced communication breakdowns during crises. Most response groups had unique communications systems, which kept them walled off from other teams. Oftentimes, medics could not quickly radio police officers or firefighters when they needed help. These challenges were particularly acute after the September 11th terrorist attacks and during Hurricane Katrina.

In the wake of those tragedies, government officials, private sector leaders, and public safety professionals worked together to create a solution. Those efforts led to FirstNet, which today is a nationwide broadband network open to all kinds of first responders.

Like all ambitious nationwide endeavors, FirstNet has encountered challenges. My colleagues and I are currently working through the hard debates about its merits and future success. Without congressional action, FirstNet’s authority is set to expire in February 2027. As we discuss reauthorizing the program, we hope to achieve three things. Congress needs to improve the management and oversight of the network, FirstNet must continually embrace innovative technologies, and, ultimately, it must make communication easier for the heroic men and women who serve during crises.

Mississippi Salutes Fallen Officers

During this year’s National Police Week, many Mississippians will be thinking of public safety officers we have lost in the line of duty. In January, Lee County school resource officer Rick Haggard was killed during an accident while directing traffic at a school. In April, Jackson County Deputy Sheriff Michael Jimerson paid the ultimate sacrifice as he responded to a call regarding a domestic dispute.

Tributes immediately poured in from neighbors and from fellow law enforcement professionals. It is clear these men were characterized by selfless love for family, friends, and community. I join my voice with those statements, thanking Officer Haggard and Deputy Sheriff Jimerson for their sacrifice and expressing my condolences to their loved ones.

There will be a number of Fallen Officer Memorial events during this National Police Week, and I know many Mississippians will attend one. These ceremonies move us all toward renewed gratitude for the law enforcement officials who have given their lives to keep our communities safe.