Ensign, Vitter Bill Will Allow Retired Officers to Assist During Disasters

ENSIGN, VITTER BILL WILL ALLOW RETIRED OFFICERS TO ASSIST DURING DISASTERS

Senators John Ensign and David Vitter (R - LA) introduced a bill today that will allow retired law enforcement officers to become deputized and assist rescue and recovery efforts in the wake of disasters. Ensign and Vitter introduced the Law Enforcement Assistance Force (LEAF) Act today. They were motivated by the stories of red tape encountered by retired officers who tried to help in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina.

"In times of emergencies, we cannot ignore the expertise of retired law enforcement officers who still have the skill and willingness to help those in need," Ensign said. "Retired officers possess a wealth of talent and experience in dealing with emergency situations, and their assistance can save lives."

"During Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, many lives were saved by local Good Samaritans. As we saw first hand in Louisiana, the magnitude of a storm and its aftermath can strain first responder resources to the limit, and in times of tragedy help is welcome," said Vitter. "Our bill will allow retired law enforcement officers, who are already on the ground and part of the community, to volunteer their expertise in rescue and recovery efforts."

The LEAF Act will direct the Department of Homeland Security to establish a volunteer assistance force to assist active law enforcement during a major disaster. A retired officer who volunteers to serve would be deputized and allowed to perform search and rescue and peace keeping functions for the duration of the emergency, up to one year. Eligible volunteers would be required to hold current certifications for firearms, first aid and other skills determined by the Secretary of Homeland Security.

http://ensign.senate.gov/media/pressapp/record.cfm?id=253351&&