PUBLIC SAFETY Act

Key Points

• This bill, introduced by Senator Cortez Masto, would move money away from federal immigration enforcement and give it to local police departments to hire more officers. It changes how certain federal funds are used, focusing on community policing instead of immigration removals.
• The plan provides $45 billion for a major grant program that supports state and local justice systems. This money can be used for a wide range of needs, including crime prevention, drug treatment programs, and updated technology for police and courts.
• Small towns and Tribal governments with fewer than 175 officers would have an easier time getting these grants. The bill removes some of the usual paperwork and cost-sharing requirements that often make it hard for smaller communities to afford federal help.
• The funding for hiring new officers would be available through September 2030, while the $45 billion for general justice grants would be available through September 2029. This gives local governments several years to plan and use the money for long-term safety projects.