U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina) has introduced the Medal of Sacrifice Act, a bill that would establish a new presidential award to posthumously honor law enforcement officers and first responders who are killed in the line of duty. The legislation is the Senate counterpart to a measure sponsored by U.S. Representative Brian Mast (R-Florida), which passed the House of Representatives on February 2.
Senator Graham collaborated with President Trump and Rep. Mast in developing this legislation. He emphasized the importance of recognizing the sacrifices made by law enforcement officers, firefighters, and other first responders.
“Our law enforcement officers and first responders represent some of the best and bravest among us. These men and women selflessly put their lives on the line every day to keep us safe. If these law enforcement officers and first responders perish in the line of duty, that sacrifice deserves the highest level of recognition,” said Senator Graham. “I am proud to have worked with President Trump and Rep. Mast on this important legislation so that we can ensure these heroes are never forgotten.”
Rep. Brian Mast added, “I’m thrilled to be partnering alongside Senator Lindsey Graham to get this legislation moving in the Senate. Senator Graham and I both understand the honor and respect our brave fallen law enforcement and first responders deserve and the importance of this medal. With his support in the Senate, I have no doubt we will get the Medal of Sacrifice Act to the President’s desk swiftly and start to recognize those who put their lives on the line to protect us.”
The Medal of Sacrifice Act has received backing from several organizations, including the National Police Association, Federal Law Enforcement Officers Association (FLEOA), Sergeants Benevolent Association (SBA), and Police Officers Defense Coalition.
Senator Graham serves as chairman of the Senate Budget Committee according to his official website, where he focuses on national defense and fiscal responsibility. He was first elected to represent South Carolina in 2002 and continues his work within Congress.
The full text of the bill is available online.
