RESOLUTION NO. 250583
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Sponsor: Councilmember Nathan Willett
RESOLUTION - Expressing the City of Kansas City, Missouri’s support for the bipartisan Graham Hoffman Act to protect first responders from violent assaults under federal law and directing the City Clerk to take action to forward this resolution to the United States Congressional delegation from Missouri and certain other offices.
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WHEREAS, Kansas City, Missouri, is a city deeply committed to public safety and the courageous service of its first responders, including firefighters, paramedics, law enforcement officers, and emergency personnel; and
WHEREAS, the tragic and senseless murder of firefighter paramedic Graham Hoffman, a dedicated public servant of Kansas City, underscored a significant gap in federal protections for first responders who face life-threatening dangers in the line of duty; and
WHEREAS, Senator Eric Schmitt (R-MO), in a bipartisan effort with Senator Maggie Hassan (D-NH), introduced the Graham Hoffman Act, legislation that strengthens legal protections for first responders by making it a federal crime to knowingly assault a first responder with a firearm, dangerous weapon, explosive or incendiary device, or other weapon that has traveled in interstate or foreign commerce, when the United States Attorney General certifies such prosecution is necessary; and
WHEREAS, this legislation honors the memory of Graham Hoffman and reflects a national commitment to ensuring that violent acts against first responders do not go without the possibility of federal prosecution when circumstances demand it; and
WHEREAS, bipartisan support for the Graham Hoffman Act demonstrates the critical and nonpartisan importance of protecting those who serve our communities, often under extreme risk and in moments of crisis; and
WHEREAS, the City of Kansas City stands united in its resolve to support all efforts to enhance the safety, respect, and legal protections for first responders who sacrifice their safety for the public good; NOW, THEREFORE,
BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF KANSAS CITY:
Section 1. That the City of Kansas City, Missouri formally expresses its strong support for the Graham Hoffman Act, introduced by Senator Eric Schmitt and Senator Maggie Hassan, and urges its passage by the United States Congress as a necessary measure to protect our first responders and uphold justice in their honor.
Section 2. That the City Clerk is hereby directed to send copies of this resolution to Senator Eric Schmitt, Senator Maggie Hassan, and the entire United States congressional delegation from Missouri.
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