Rep. Harder Introduces Bipartisan Bill to Provide $1 Billion Yearly for Local Police Hiring
The COPS Reauthorization Act of 2026 was recently introduced and is currently being reviewed by the House Committee on the Judiciary. This is the first step in the legislative process, and there are no further actions scheduled at this time. The bill is considered active as it begins its journey through Congress.
This bill has bipartisan support and funds a popular program, but it is currently in the early stages of the committee process.
This bill’s path across every version that has carried it.
Scores run from -100 (strongly harmful) to +100 (strongly beneficial) for each group, combining impact, certainty, scope, and duration ratings of 1-5. How impact scoring works
Small business owners in communities that receive COPS grants could benefit from lower crime rates and a stronger police presence, which helps protect their property and creates safer environments for customers. However, this is an indirect effect that depends on how effectively local departments use the grant funds.
Referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary.
Introduced in House
The bill was officially filed and given a number. It now enters the legislative queue.
Rep. George Whitesides (CA-27) introduced the COPS Reauthorization Act to restore over $1 billion in annual funding for the COPS ON THE BEAT program through 2031. The bill, co-sponsored by Reps. Harder and Rutherford, also establishes the COPS Office as a permanent, standalone entity within the DOJ.
Amid rising concerns over police staffing, the 'cops on the beat' program remains a central focus of public safety debates. The article highlights the need for increased officer strength and the role of federal grants in supporting local law enforcement recruitment efforts in major cities.
No votes or related bills recorded for this bill yet.
Document Type
Congressional Bill
Official Title
COPS Reauthorization Act of 2026
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