SE Texas Times

U.S. Rep. Randy Weber (TX-14) and Sen. Ted Cruz (R-TX) will introduce the Officer John Barnes Act, a piece of legislation aimed at ensuring timely support for law enforcement officers and their families. Named in honor of Officer John Barnes, who demonstrated bravery during the Santa Fe, Texas shooting tragedy, this bill seeks to address delays faced by officers and their families in receiving benefits from the Public Safety Officers' Benefits Program (PSOB).

The PSOB Program provides support, including death and education benefits to survivors of fallen law enforcement officers, firefighters, and other first responders, as well as disability benefits to officers catastrophically injured in the line of duty. Despite applying for these benefits, Officer Barnes and his family have experienced a long wait for a determination from the Department of Justice (DOJ) since the 2018 shooting.

“In America, we pride ourselves on supporting those who risk their lives to protect our communities. Yet, the burdensome delays within our federal government have left officers like John Barnes waiting in limbo for over six years,” said Rep. Weber. “This is unacceptable, and no officer should have to endure such bureaucratic hurdles. The Officer John Barnes Act is a crucial step towards ensuring that our law enforcement heroes receive the timely assistance they deserve without unnecessary obstacles hindering their access to vital benefits.”

“Across the country, our nation’s law enforcement officers selflessly serve as the front line of defense for our communities. Every single day, they put their lives on the line for their fellow Americans, and in times of crisis these heroes deserve to access the benefits they have earned without red tape getting in the way,” said Sen. Cruz. “We owe it to our law enforcement officers like Officer Barnes who has waited for far too long to eliminate these bureaucratic barriers hindering their access to benefits. I am proud to introduce the Officer John Barnes Act to ensure our men and women in blue receive the prompt support they deserve.”

Under the provisions of the Officer John Barnes Act, the DOJ would be mandated to issue a determination on benefit claims within 270 days of receipt.