DeLauro, Local Police Chiefs Discuss Issues Facing Law Enforcement

NEW HAVEN, CT – Congresswoman Rosa L. DeLauro (CT-3) metwith police chiefs from the Third Congressional District today to discuss someof the critical issues facing law enforcement. The group focused theirdiscussion on the budget, especially the deeply harmful, indiscriminate cutsknown as sequestration. Robert Zaretsky, Regional Administrator for the GeneralServices Administrations (GSA) was also present to talk about how GSA can helplocal departments save money.

"Everyone across the nation was reminded of how vital ourfirst responders are, and how they put their lives on the line every day, afterthe recent tragedies in Newtown, Boston, and West, Texas. When danger happens –a terrorist attack, a shooting, a fire – they run in when others run out. Theyare the front lines and put their lives on the line time and again for ourhomes and families.

"I am committed to making sure our law enforcement officialsalways have the resources they need to keep our families, and themselves, safe.Our obligation to law enforcement, which should match the level of commitmentthey have shown to our communities, is among the most importantresponsibilities of government. As a Member of Congress I will continueto advocate on their behalf to ensure their needs are met.

"President Obama recently released his 2014 budget andCongress is currently debating how best to move forward on funding publicsafety and other critical programs. Right now, there are 50,000 fewer cops onthe street than there were in 2008. Despite this, the House Majority's focuscontinues to be spending cuts. Their proposed budget would make significantlydeeper cuts to public safety programs, shifting more of the cost of hiring andpreparing these officers to state and local budgets. But I will be fightinghard to ensure Connecticut receives the federal funding it needs."