Source: United States Senator for Texas John Cornyn
U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX), Tom Cotton (R-AR), and Thom Tillis (R-NC) yesterday introduced the Federal Law Enforcement Service Weapon Purchase Act, which would allow current federal law enforcement officers to purchase their retired service weapon at market value in an effort to stop the loss of millions of federal dollars in destroyed guns:
“Retired guns used by agencies like the Border Patrol and the Secret Service must be destroyed once they reach the end of their service life, a practice that wastes millions of dollars,” said Sen. Cornyn. “This legislation would allow federal agencies to recuperate the value of these guns by selling them back to the federal law enforcement officers who use them.”
“Instead of destroying retired weapons—which wastes millions in tax dollars—law enforcement officers should have the option to purchase these firearms. Revenue from the sales would help cut the cost of purchasing new weapons, and would allow officers to purchase firearms they’re already accustomed to,” said Sen. Cotton.
“It’s important for law enforcement to be equipped with the necessary resources for their job, including tools to promote gun safety and prevent gun violence,” said Sen. Tillis. “This legislation will enable federal law enforcement to purchase retired handguns for use on the force but to also further safety and training programs for gun safety education. I will always work hard for our brave law enforcement.”
Senators Patrick Leahy (D-VT) and Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV) have also cosponsored the legislation.
Background:
The Federal Law Enforcement Service Weapon Purchase Act allows federal law enforcement officers to buy their retired weapon at the fair market value within six months of the end of its service life. The agency must conduct a background check prior to purchase.
The bill is endorsed by the Federal Law Enforcement Officers Association, the National Association of Police Organizations, the Fraternal Order of the Police, Women In Federal Law Enforcement, and the National Treasury Employees Union.