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Floor Speech

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Mr. RUIZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today during National Police Week to honor the bravery, sacrifice, and service of law enforcement officers across California's 25th District and our Nation.

I thank every officer in my district, from city departments to county and Federal agencies, for putting their lives on the line to keep our communities safe.

On May 2, the 17th Annual Imperial Valley Law Enforcement Memorial Ceremony brought our community together in El Centro to remember the 49 officers who made the ultimate sacrifice in their service to the Imperial Valley.

This week, the Riverside County Sheriff's Office held its own memorial, recommitting to their mission to protect and serve. This is a sad reminder that each day police and first responders make the ultimate sacrifice for their communities.

That is why Congress needs to do more to support officers and their surviving families. We must pass my legislation, the Heroes Lesley Zerebny and Gilbert Vega First Responders Survivors Support Act, which increases and improves access to financial and educational benefits for the families of the fallen or disabled officers.

Let's honor our officers not just with words but with meaningful actions that support their well-being and their family's well-being and safety.

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