A resolution designating the week of May 10 through May 16, 2026, as "National Police Week".

Summary of Bill: S. Res. 735 (119th Congress, 2nd Session)

Purpose

• Designates the week of May 10 through May 16, 2026 as “National Police Week.”
• Acknowledges and supports law enforcement officers at federal, state, local, and Tribal levels.
• Honors officers who have died, been injured, or faced violence in the line of duty, and IT reiterates the importance of providing officers with necessary resources, training, and equipment to protect their health and safety.

Key Provisions and Provisions to Expect

• Official designation of National Police Week for the specified dates in 2026.
• Statements of support for law enforcement officers nationwide, emphasizing dedication to justice, fidelity to constitutional rights, and the responsibility to uphold public trust.
• Recognition that officers may become targets of violence and the corresponding need for resilience and safety.
• Reference to Peace Officers Memorial Day (May 15) and the Joint Resolution (Public Law 87-726, 76 Stat. 676, 1962) authorizing the President to proclaim the day and designate the surrounding week as National Police Week.
• Acknowledgment of the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial as the national monument honoring officers who died in the line of duty.
• Condolences and solemn appreciation to the families and loved ones of fallen officers.
• Encouragement for Americans to observe National Police Week by honoring law enforcement personnel and promoting awareness of their essential mission.

Who/What is Affected

• Law enforcement officers across the United States (federal, state, local, and Tribal) are recognized and supported.
• Families and loved ones of officers killed or injured in the line of duty are specifically acknowledged.
• The general public is invited to participate in National Police Week activities and awareness efforts.

Procedural and Timeline Details

• The resolution was submitted and considered in the Senate on May 14, 2026.
• It was agreed to without amendment and with a preamble by unanimous consent.
• The designation references Peace Officers Memorial Day (May 15) and the week containing that day as National Police Week, aligning with the 1962 Joint Resolution authorizing such designations.
• The resolution notes that, based on the Law Enforcement Officers Killed and Assaulted (LEOKA) Program, 11 officers were reported killed in the line of duty in 2026 up to that point, underscoring the ongoing risks faced by law enforcement personnel.

Sponsors and Support

• Bipartisan group of sponsors, including notable Senators from both parties, with a long list of co-sponsors representing broad support for recognizing National Police Week and honoring law enforcement personnel.

Practical Impact

• Serves primarily as a ceremonial and symbolic designation to elevate public awareness and appreciation for law enforcement.
• Encourages commemorative activities, remembrance of fallen officers, and public expressions of support.
• Does not create new statutory mandates, appropriations, or enforcement powers beyond the designation and expressed intent to support officer health, safety, and training needs.

This summary presents the bill as a formal recognition and commemorative measure intended to honor law enforcement personnel and engage the public in appreciating and supporting their critical role in safeguarding communities.