SNJ Today - Congressmen LoBiondo and Visclosky Announce the Re-authorization of Bulletproof Vest Program

News Article

United States Congressmen Frank A. LoBiondo and Peter Visclosky recently announced a three year re-authorization of the Bulletproof Vest Partnership (BVP) program.

The BVP program, created in 1999 by the two lawmakers, provides state, local, and tribal law enforcement officers with needed protection by aiding the purchase of protective equipment. The last re-authorization was in 2008.

"Recent events underscore the threats our men and women in uniform face each day as they safeguard our communities and protect the freedoms all of us enjoy," said LoBiondo. "Bulletproof vests and body armor have saved thousands of law enforcement officers. However, they cannot protect the lives of those who do not have access to them. Now more than ever it is imperative that we give law enforcement the tools they need so they may do their jobs and carry out their duties safely and effectively."

Since 1999, over 13,000 jurisdictions across the country have participated in the BVP program, with $375 million in federal funds committed to support the purchase of more than 1.1 million vests. According to data from the Office of Justice Programs' website, in 2012 the vests were attributed to saving the lives of at least 33 law enforcement and corrections officers, in 20 different states, which is an increase of over 13.7% from the previous year.

"Law enforcement professionals serve a critical role in our daily lives and throughout our society. The protection of these courageous men and women is essential to the job they perform and we must continue to ensure that they have the tools necessary to perform their duty in the safest manner possible," said Congressman Pete Visclosky.

Further information on the Bulletproof Vest Partnership program can be found at www.ojp.usdoj.gov/bvpbasi.

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