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Recruit and Retain Act

6/18/2024, 8:04 PM

Summary of Bill S 546

Bill 118 s 546, also known as the Recruit and Retain Act, is a piece of legislation currently being considered by the US Congress. The main goal of this bill is to address the ongoing issue of recruitment and retention within the US military.

The bill proposes several key measures to improve recruitment and retention rates within the military. One of the main provisions of the bill is to increase funding for recruitment efforts, including advertising campaigns and outreach programs to attract new recruits. Additionally, the bill aims to improve the quality of life for military personnel by increasing pay and benefits, as well as providing more support for military families.

Another important aspect of the bill is the focus on improving training and education opportunities for military personnel. The bill proposes increased funding for training programs and career development initiatives to help retain skilled and experienced personnel within the military. Overall, the Recruit and Retain Act seeks to address the challenges facing the US military in recruiting and retaining personnel. By increasing funding for recruitment efforts, improving benefits and support for military personnel, and enhancing training and education opportunities, the bill aims to strengthen the US military and ensure that it remains a strong and effective force for national defense.

Congressional Summary of S 546

Recruit and Retain Act

This bill expands the Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) grant program to support recruitment efforts by law enforcement agencies.

Specifically, the bill expands the COPS program by

  • allowing funds to be used for reducing application-related fees (e.g., fees for background checks, psychological evaluations, and testing); and
  • directing the Department of Justice (DOJ) to award competitive grants to partnerships between law enforcement agencies and educational institutions (e.g., elementary and secondary schools and institutions of higher education) for recruiting activities, such as for career and job fairs.

The bill requires DOJ to establish guidance for understaffed law enforcement agencies applying for COPS grants.

The Government Accountability Office must study and report on the effects of recruitment and attrition rates on federal, state, tribal, and local law enforcement agencies.

Current Status of Bill S 546

Bill S 546 is currently in the status of Signed by President since May 24, 2024. Bill S 546 was introduced during Congress 118 and was introduced to the Senate on February 28, 2023.  Bill S 546's most recent activity was Became Public Law No: 118-64. as of May 24, 2024

Bipartisan Support of Bill S 546

Total Number of Sponsors
1
Democrat Sponsors
0
Republican Sponsors
1
Unaffiliated Sponsors
0
Total Number of Cosponsors
12
Democrat Cosponsors
7
Republican Cosponsors
5
Unaffiliated Cosponsors
0

Policy Area and Potential Impact of Bill S 546

Primary Policy Focus

Crime and Law Enforcement

Potential Impact Areas

- Congressional oversight
- Elementary and secondary education
- Employee hiring
- Government information and archives
- Government studies and investigations
- Higher education
- Law enforcement administration and funding
- Law enforcement officers
- State and local government operations
- User charges and fees

Alternate Title(s) of Bill S 546

Recruit and Retain Act
Recruit and Retain Act
Recruit and Retain Act
Recruit and Retain Act
A bill to amend the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of 1968 to authorize law enforcement agencies to use COPS grants for recruitment activities, and for other purposes.

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