Webb Commends Passage of Amendment To Provide Training To Rural Law Enforcement Officers
Legislation to Offer Unique Training for Virginia’s Rural Police Force
Washington, DC—Senator Jim Webb of Virginia today commended the passage of legislation that provides cutting-edge training for law enforcement officers in rural communities. Offered as an amendment to the 9/11 Commission Homeland Security Legislation, today’s 82-1 vote creates a Rural Policing Institute (RPI) within the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center (FLETC).
“The post-9/11 environment has increased demands placed on our law enforcement agencies,” said Senator Webb. “In addition, our rural communities are facing new challenges, particularly with the spread of methamphetamines.”
The Rural Policing Institute will offer comprehensive training programs designed to address the needs of rural law enforcement agencies, including combating methamphetamine addiction and distribution, domestic violence and law enforcement response related to school shootings.
“We count on our more than 17,000 local law enforcement officials to serve as the Commonwealth’s first responders, but our officers in rural Virginia communities face unique challenges. This Rural Policing program will ensure that they receive the training that they need to address such an array of issues.
“In addition to this amendment today, I will continue to work with my Senate colleagues to ensure the full implementation of the 9/11 Commission’s recommendations to increase the security of our nation,” said Webb.
The Senate is scheduled to pass the 9/11 Commission homeland security bill next week.
