NAPO Attends Vice President Joe Biden's Highlight
of the American Jobs Act in Alexandria, Virginia

Photo taken by Rachel Hedge

Vice President Biden visited the Alexandria Police Department in Virginia to highlight how the American Jobs Act would benefit first responders. The Vice President reiterated his strong support for the COPS Hiring program, by stating an adage from his father, “Don’t tell me what you value, show me your budget, and I will tell you what you value.” This applies to the Administration’s proposed package; the American Jobs Act which provides $4 billion for the hiring, rehiring and retention of officers. During the latest round of requests for FY11 funds the COPS Office was allocated $246.8 million. However, there were $4.75 billion in unanswered requests. These unanswered requests underscore the need for adequate funding and the importance for this provision in the American Jobs proposal.

The Vice President also spoke to the importance of dedicating $10 billion of spectrum, known as the D Block to first responders for a communication network. NAPO has been and continues to be a leader on this issue. NAPO is working with legislators on Capitol Hill to secure passage of legislation that will allocate the D Block to public safety.

NAPO was the only rank-and-file association in attendance for the Vice President’s meeting. We remain proactive and committed to the needs of all our membership.