Across America, law enforcement officers are facing a dangerous and deeply troubling reality: they are increasingly being targeted simply because of the uniform they wear. From ambush-style attacks to deliberate acts of violence, the risks facing officers today go far beyond the inherent dangers of the job. According to law enforcement data, hundreds of officers are shot in the line of duty each year, with dozens killed—many in targeted attacks.

That is why Police Officers’ Defense Coalition (PODC) strongly supports the Thin Blue Line Act (H.R. 378/S.83)—a critical piece of legislation designed to ensure that those who target law enforcement face the full weight of federal justice.

What the Thin Blue Line Act Will Do

The Thin Blue Line Act strengthens federal law by expanding death penalty eligibility in cases involving the murder or attempted murder of law enforcement officers and other first responders.

Specifically, the bill:

• Adds the killing of a law enforcement officer as an aggravating factor in federal death penalty determinations
• Extends these protections to state and local officers, not just federal personnel
• Applies when an officer is targeted because of their duties or status

Currently, federal law already recognizes attacks on certain officials as aggravating factors—but this bill ensures that all law enforcement officers receive equal protection under the law.

The legislation is led by strong pro-law enforcement voices in Congress, sponsored in the House by Rep. Vern Buchanan (R-FL), and in the Senate by Sen. Ted Cruz (R-TX). 

Key House Co-Sponsors Include:

• Rep. Don Bacon (R-NE-2)
• Rep. Mike Bost (R-IL-12)
• Rep. Mike Ezell (R-MS-4)
• Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA-1)
• Rep. Clay Higgins (R-LA-3)
• Rep. Troy Nehls (R-TX-22)
• Rep. David Valadao (R-CA-22)
• Rep. Randy Weber (R-TX-14)
• Rep. Nick LaLota (R-NY-1)
• Rep. Anna Paulina Luna (R-FL-13)
• Rep. Erin Houchin (R-IN-9)
• Rep. Richard Hudson (R-NC-9)
• Rep. Monica De La Cruz (R-TX-15)

Key Senate Co-Sponsors Include:

• Sen. Marsha Blackburn (R-TN)
• Sen. John Boozman (R-AR)
• Sen. Ted Budd (R-NC)
• Sen. Bill Hagerty (R-TN)
• Sen. John Hoeven (R-ND)
• Sen. Ron Johnson (R-WI)
• Sen. John Kennedy (R-LA)
• Sen. James Lankford (R-OK)
• Sen. Rick Scott (R-FL)

This growing coalition reflects strong support in Congress for protecting those who protect our communities. Major national law enforcement organizations have joined Police Officers’ Defense Coalition in endorsing this legislation, including the Fraternal Order of Police, National Sheriffs’ Association, National Association of Police Organizations, and Federal Law Enforcement Officers Association. These organizations represent hundreds of thousands of officers nationwide and recognize the urgent need for stronger protections.

Violence against police officers is rising—and in many cases, officers are being targeted intentionally. In 2024 alone 342 officers were shot in the line of duty, 50 officers were killed, and 61 ambush-style attacks were reported. These are not random incidents. They reflect a growing trend of targeted violence against law enforcement. The Thin Blue Line Act sends a clear and unmistakable message: If you target a police officer, there will be severe consequences.

Law enforcement officers put their lives on the line every day. They respond to dangerous situations, confront violent offenders, and protect communities at great personal risk. Targeting an officer should never be treated as just another crime. The Thin Blue Line Act ensures that these acts are treated with the highest level of seriousness under federal law, reinforcing respect for law enforcement and deterring future attacks.

Congress must act now to ensure that those who target police officers face the strongest possible consequences. If you support law enforcement, make your voice heard. Contact your House Representative and your Senators and urge them to pass the Thin Blue Line Act (H.R. 378 / S.83).