Chief Herbert D. Proffitt Act of 2025
Summary
The Chief Herbert D. Proffitt Act of 2025 amends the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of 1968. It expands the Public Safety Officers' Death Benefits program to include certain retired law enforcement officers. This inclusion applies retroactively to January 1, 2012, for targeted attacks resulting in death or permanent disability.
Expected Effects
The act will provide death benefits to the families of retired law enforcement officers who die or become permanently disabled due to targeted attacks stemming from their service. This expansion of benefits aims to offer financial support and recognition for the continued risks faced by retired officers. It also acknowledges the potential for targeted violence against them due to their past profession.
Potential Benefits
- Provides financial assistance to families of retired law enforcement officers killed or disabled in targeted attacks.
- Recognizes the ongoing risks faced by retired law enforcement officers due to their prior service.
- Offers retroactive benefits for incidents occurring after January 1, 2012.
- May improve morale among current and retired law enforcement officers.
- Could be seen as a measure of justice and support for those who have served the public.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential increase in costs to the Public Safety Officers' Death Benefits program.
- Possible challenges in determining eligibility and proving the link between the attack and the officer's prior service.
- May create disparities if other retired public servants are not afforded similar protections.
- Could incentivize fraudulent claims, requiring increased oversight.
- The definition of 'targeted attack' may be subject to interpretation and legal challenges.
Constitutional Alignment
The act appears to align with the Constitution's general welfare clause, as it aims to provide for the well-being of retired law enforcement officers and their families. Specifically, the Preamble states the Constitution is intended to "promote the general Welfare". The Act does not appear to infringe upon any specific constitutional right or protection. However, questions of equal protection under the law (14th Amendment) could arise if similar benefits are not extended to other categories of public servants facing comparable risks.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).