Summary
A Democratic lawmaker, Representative Hank Johnson Jr., has reintroduced a bill called the Stop Militarizing Law Enforcement Act of 2026. The bill aims to restrict the transfer of military-grade equipment from the Pentagon to police departments in the U.S. It has support from 19 House Democrats and various advocacy groups.
Key Facts
- The bill, H.R. 7766, was introduced by Representative Hank Johnson Jr. on March 3, 2026.
- It seeks to limit the transfer of surplus military equipment to law enforcement agencies.
- The proposal focuses on the “1033 program,” which allows police departments to obtain military equipment.
- The bill would prohibit transfers of certain military items like weapons and armored vehicles.
- It includes requirements for tracking and accountability of all transferred equipment.
- The American Civil Liberties Union and Amnesty International USA are among the supporting organizations.
- Concerns about police using military gear have been a topic of debate in the U.S.
- The House Armed Services Committee is currently reviewing the bill.
