Back the Blue

This week marked National Police Week, an opportunity to honor the men and women of law enforcement who have given their lives in the line of duty. It’s a stark reminder that anyone who puts on the badge may not come home at the end of their workday. Whether in large cities where crime is more prevalent or in small towns where everybody knows everybody, there is always the chance that an officer will end up losing their life doing their job.

Over the years, anti-police rhetoric and moves to “defund the police” has led to an increase in violence directed at our law enforcement officers. It’s shameful. Earlier this week, the House passed several pieces of legislation aimed at aiding our law enforcement officers, including one that ensures the Department of Justice is better tracking and reporting on violent crime against our police officers. It’s the first step in ensuring they can more quickly access the resources they need to not only defend themselves but also recover mentally and physically if attacked. 

Recently, the State of Missouri, led by Governor Mike Kehoe, implemented the Blue Shield Program to aid communities across Missouri who support their local law enforcement agencies. Started back in January, the program gives counties, cities and towns the opportunity to be recognized with a Blue Shield designation for focusing on public safety, supporting law enforcement and working with the community to promote public safety.

I’m thrilled to see that multiple cities and counties across North Missouri have joined the program, meeting the criteria that was established to be a part of the program. I know more are being added every day as I continue to see folks announcing on social media that they are joining the program.

Any local government interested in joining should reach out to the Missouri Department of Public Safety for more details. I’d love to see the vast majority of communities in my district on the list for Governor Kehoe’s Blue Shield Program. It’s a great way to show that North Missouri backs the blue. 

It’s critical that we continue to support and honor our law enforcement officers, both during National Police Week and every week. We’ve seen what happens when communities actively do the opposite. I will always stand with and support the men and women who wear the badge and continue to serve our communities.

Sincerely,

Sam Graves