Washington, D.C. — Law Enforcement Immigration Task Force (LEITF) leaders support and urge further action on a bill that would strengthen penalties for people fleeing U.S. Border Patrol or Federal, State, or local law enforcement while operating a motor vehicle within 100 miles of the U.S. border.

The House of Representatives passed H.R. 5585, the Agent Raul Gonzalez Officer Safety Act, on Jan. 30. LEITF leaders support the bill because it addresses high-speed chase situations that pose a risk to public safety, while also urging Congress to work on critically needed broader border and immigration solutions.

The following are quotes from LEITF co-chairs.

Chief Michael Tupper (Marshalltown, Iowa):
“High-speed pursuits create inherent and unnecessary danger for the public and law enforcement personnel. It is important to support the work of law enforcement and look for ways to enhance public safety. This legislation holds people accountable for committing these dangerous crimes. It is equally important that our federal leaders find bipartisan solutions for the immigration crisis facing our country.”

Chief Ramon Batista (Santa Monica, California): 
“This bill will hold accountable people driving vehicles connected to human smuggling operations, ensuring they will face serious consequences for fleeing from law enforcement and causing dangerous accidents.”

Chief Chad Kasmar (Tucson, Arizona): 
“This bill is a step forward for public safety at and near our border. The Senate should pass it. Then, lawmakers must work on further reforms that undercut smugglers and cartels and boost safety for law enforcement, our communities, and migrants themselves.

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