Second Bill from Rep. Trey Gowdy Becomes Law

For the second time this year, a bill from Rep. Trey Gowdy has been signed into law. Gowdy's first bill, allowing for extended Secret Service protection for former presidents, was signed last week.

His latest bill, HR 2076, lets state and local law enforcement officials involved in the investigation of mass killings and other violent acts to request assistance from the law enforcement agencies within the Departments of Justice and Homeland Security.Hr 2076 is also known as The Investigative Assistance for Violent Crimes Act and it clarifies the support and places these acts of aid within the scope of Federal employment.

In a statement Rep. Gowdy said, “As we have seen all too recently, federal law enforcement authorities can play an important role in the investigation of heinous criminal acts. Tragically, our country has seen instances where this is helpful in places as disparate as movie theaters, college campuses, and even elementary schools.” 

“To better enable federal assistance, I introduced the Investigative Assistance Act, and this bill has been signed into law. The bill gives statutory coverage to the FBI and other federal law enforcement agencies to assist in the investigation of mass killings or other violent crimes, when requested by state and local law enforcement.  This bill does not enlarge the jurisdiction of federal law enforcement but does enable aid to be rendered upon request by state and local law enforcement officials." 

"As a former state and federal prosecutor, I have seen firsthand state, local and federal agents working together. It is my hope the involvement of federal agencies and their contribution of specialized skills, access and knowledge will be instrumental in ensuring justice is quickly served.”

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