Hoyer Statement on National Blue Alert Act of 2013

WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (MD-5) released the following statement today on the National Blue Alert Act of 2013, which passed the House today:

"As we celebrate National Police Week and recognize the dedication and sacrifice of our law enforcement officers, I'm pleased the House voted today in support of creating a national Blue Alert System that will allow police officers and first responders to react quickly when a law enforcement officer is injured or killed and make it easier to apprehend violent criminals.

"Following the tragic death of Maryland State Trooper Wesley Brown, a young officer who was shot and killed while working an off-duty security detail, Governor Martin O'Malley signed an executive order immediately implementing the Blue Alert System in Maryland. I'm pleased that system now serves as a national model and the legislation passed today will expand this system. I also applaud Senator Ben Cardin for introducing similar legislation in the Senate.

"I'm hopeful this legislation will be enacted into law so that we can take another important step in protecting our law enforcement officers, who put their lives on the line in our communities every day."