Rep. Don Bacon (R-NE-02) announced the passage of the Law Enforcement Officers Safety Reform Act (LEOSA), H.R.2243, in the House with a vote of 229-193. The bipartisan legislation, co-led by Rep. Henry Cuellar (D-TX-28), includes seventeen Republican members as cosponsors.
The LEOSA Reform Act aims to enhance public safety by extending concealed carry privileges for qualified law enforcement officers, allowing them to respond swiftly to emergencies in public areas such as shopping malls and school zones. During the 118th Congress, this act was previously passed by the House with a 221-185 vote.
Rep. Bacon stated, “I’m pleased today the House passed my bipartisan LEOSA Reform Act, which offers real solutions to address threats such as terrorism and mass shootings by ensuring that our retired and off-duty law enforcement officers can exercise their right to concealed carry – no matter where they live or visit.” He added gratitude towards Rep. Henry Cuellar and numerous local and national law enforcement organizations for their support.
Local endorsements came from Douglas County Sheriff Aaron Hanson, Sarpy County Sheriff Greg London, Saunders County Sheriff Chris Lichtenberg, Omaha Police Association President Patrick Dempsey, and Nebraska State FOP President Anthony Connor.
Nationally, the bill received backing from several organizations including the Fraternal Order of Police (FOP), Federal Law Enforcement Officers Association (FLEOA), Air Marshal Association, FBI Agents Association (FBIAA), International Union of Police Associations, Major Cities Chiefs Association, National Association of Police Organizations (NAPO), among others.
