Austin News

U.S. Senator Ted Cruz has reintroduced the Officer John Barnes Act, aiming to address delays in the Public Safety Officers’ Benefits Program (PSOB). The bill seeks to expedite the processing of benefit claims for law enforcement officers and their families by mandating that the Department of Justice (DOJ) resolve these claims within 270 days.

Senator Cruz emphasized the dedication of law enforcement officers, stating, "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." He added that eliminating bureaucratic obstacles is crucial for officers like John Barnes who have faced prolonged waiting periods.

The bill has garnered support from several co-sponsors, including Senators Bill Cassidy, Kevin Cramer, Jim Justice, and James Lankford.

Named after Officer John Barnes, who was severely injured during a shooting incident in Santa Fe, Texas in 2018, the legislation highlights his ongoing struggle with delayed benefit determinations from the DOJ. The PSOB Program is designed to provide essential support such as death and education benefits to survivors of fallen first responders and disability benefits to those catastrophically injured.

Senator Cruz initially introduced this legislation in June 2024.