U.S. Senator Chuck Grassley spoke on the Senate floor Thursday ahead of National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day, which is observed Friday, January 9.
Grassley expressed gratitude for law enforcement officers across the country, saying their service deserves recognition every day of the year. He encouraged Americans to personally thank officers for their role in keeping communities safe.
Grassley cited national crime data, noting violent crime is down 12 percent and murders in major cities have dropped 20 percent. He also highlighted record seizures of dangerous drugs, including fentanyl, methamphetamine, cocaine, and heroin, crediting law enforcement for removing those substances from the streets.
As Chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee, Grassley said he has continued working to support law enforcement in Iowa and nationwide. He pointed to recent legislation that secured increased funding for the Byrne Justice Assistance Grant and COPS programs, which help local police departments and strengthen efforts to combat drug trafficking.
Grassley also noted four bipartisan bills passed during Police Week in May became law through the National Defense Authorization Act. The measures expand federal support for law enforcement officers and their families, strengthen tools to fight online child exploitation, and extend counter-drone authority to state and local agencies.
Grassley said he remains committed to working with colleagues on both sides of the aisle to support law enforcement efforts.
He closed his remarks by thanking officers for their service and offering well wishes for their safety as they continue protecting communities across the nation.