Rural law enforcement bill signed into law
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A new piece of legislation has been signed into law that establishes a grant program to offer financial assistance to law enforcement in rural communities.
State Representative Ryan Guillen announced the signing of the bill aimed at establishing a grant program to provide financial assistance to sheriffs’ departments, elected prosecutors’ offices and constables’ offices in eligible rural counties.
The state representative said the grant program addresses many challenges faced by law enforcement in rural communities by increasing their salaries and providing funding for essential equipment.
“Rural law enforcement officers play a vital role in maintaining public safety and upholding the law,” Rep. Guillen said. “This bill is a crucial step towards addressing the unique challenges faced by these officers in rural communities.”
Under the proposed grant program, law enforcement agencies could receive financial support to increase the salaries of their officers. Higher salaries may attract and retain qualified officers, leading to improved public safety outcomes and more effective law enforcement efforts, Guillen added.
“I recognize the importance of supporting law enforcement in rural counties and am committed to ensuring the success of this legislation,” the Texas legislator said. “The proposed grant program will not only help attract and retain skilled officers but also provide the necessary resources for these officers to fulfill their duties effectively.
“By providing financial assistance for increased salaries and essential equipment, we can empower our law enforcement agencies so that the they can best protect and serve our constituents,” he added.
Rep. Guillen serves eleven rural South Texas counties in the Texas Legislature, including La Salle County.