Washington, D.C. – Congressman Adam Smith, (D-Tacoma), made the following statement today on the failure of the COPS Funding:
“Once again, the Republican majority has failed to support legislation that would fund the Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) program. Today, a motion on the Floor of the U.S. House of Representatives would have allowed an amendment to reauthorize the COPS program for FY 2006 -2008. The vote failed 227 – 198, along party lines. The program has been one of the most effective crime prevention efforts authorized by Congress. In Washington State alone, the COPS program has provided funds to add over 400 officers to Washington State law enforcement agencies.
Without full funding, Washington State law enforcement will suffer as will the safety and security of all those living in the state. Cutting this funding will have a detrimental effect that will resonate in every state in the country. Since 1994, COPS has distributed billions of dollars to advance community policing efforts. As a former prosecutor, I know the positive impact that community policing efforts can have in our cities and states. We must fund this important program and give local law enforcement the help they need in their fight against crime.”