Austin News

U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) and Rep. Randy Weber (R-Texas-14) will introduce the Officer John Barnes Act this week to ensure timely support for law enforcement officers and their families in times of crisis. The legislation aims to address delays in receiving benefits from the Public Safety Officers’ Benefits Program (PSOB). The Officer John Barnes Act mandates that the Department of Justice (DOJ) issue a determination on benefit claims within 270 days of receipt.

Upon introduction, Sen. Cruz stated, "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. We owe it to our law enforcement officers, like Officers 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."

Rep. Weber added, "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. 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."

The bill is named in honor of Officer John Barnes, who demonstrated exceptional bravery during the Santa Fe, Texas shooting tragedy by suffering a disabling shotgun blast while protecting others. Despite applying for PSOB benefits following the 2018 incident, Officer Barnes and his family have faced an excruciating six-year wait for a determination from the DOJ.

The PSOB Program provides essential 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.

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