Owens Co-Sponsors Bill to Impose Harsher Penalties on Criminals Who Target Police

Washington, D.C.  Today, Rep. Burgess Owens (UT-04) co-sponsored the Thin Blue Line Act, legislation to enhance federal punishments for crimes against first responders. H.R. 72, which passed the House with bipartisan support during the 115th Congress, provides local and state law enforcement officers the same protection and support currently provided to federal officers—acting as a deterrent to anyone who would look to harm an officer. According to the National Fraternal Order of Police (NFOP), 141 officers were shot so far this year, 21 of whom were killed. 

“It has never been more dangerous to be a police officer in American than it is today,” said Rep. Owens. “Our law enforcement heroes put their lives on the line every day to keep us safe, and they deserve our utmost support and respect. I am a proud supporter of the Thin Blue Line Act because it ensures that anyone who murders or targets a federal, state, or local police officer will face the strongest possible consequences under the law.” 

The full text of the bill is available is here.