Vote to pass a bill that amends the Violent Crime Control and Law Enforcement Act of 1994 by changing federal assistance to local law enforcement block grants.
Highlights:
Sets guidelines that local units must meet in order to qualify for grants.
Prohibits the use of block grant funds for the procurement of certain vehicles unless cleared by the Attorney General under special circumstances.
Requires any local government unit to repay any funds not expended within 2 years of receipt.
Authorizes $10 billion over five years to carry out activities under this act, including:
Hiring, training and employing law enforcement and support personnel, including paying overtime to presently employed officers and personnel.
Obtaining necessary operating equipment and technology.
Establishing crime prevention programs and intervention programs for juveniles.
Enhancing the security in and around schools and other “special risk” locations as determined by local governments.
Supporting drug courts and developing drug control programs under the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of 1986.
Creating an inter-government task force to prevent and combat crime in adjacent localities, with a focus on drug- or gang-related criminal activities.