Justice in the Shadows: The Law They Forgot to Write
Senate Unites to Pass ‘Hero Bill’ Honoring Fallen Retired Officers
In a rare display of unity and reverence, the U.S. Senate has unanimously passed the Chief Herbert D. Proffitt Act, a bill that extends federal benefits to the families of retired law enforcement officers who are killed in retaliation for their service. Though the legislation is modest in scope, its passage sends a powerful message: support for law enforcement still commands bipartisan respect.
The bill was named after Chief Herbert D. Proffitt, a Korean War veteran and longtime law enforcement officer from Tompkinsville, Kentucky. After serving over 50 years in uniform, he retired in 2009. Just three years later, he was tragically murdered outside his home by a man he had arrested years earlier. Investigators concluded the killing was an act of revenge for Proffitt’s work as a police officer.
Despite the clear connection to his past service, Proffitt’s family was denied compensation under the existing Public Safety Officers’ Benefits (PSOB) program, which only covered officers who died while actively serving. That exclusion drew widespread criticism and calls for reform.
Now, more than a decade later, the Senate has acted to close that loophole.
A Bipartisan Push
The legislation was co-sponsored by Senator Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV) and Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY). For Cortez Masto — a former state attorney general — the bill represents a meaningful step in addressing an overlooked injustice. “Chief Proffitt’s death was a direct result of his service,” she said on the Senate floor. “His family deserves the same respect and support as any officer killed in the line of duty.”
McConnell echoed those sentiments, emphasizing the bill’s deeper importance. “Justice delayed is justice denied,” he said. “This measure is about doing right by those who have given their lives — even if their badge was no longer on their chest.”
With no objections raised, the bill passed by unanimous consent. It now moves to the House of Representatives, where it’s expected to pass with bipartisan support.
More Than Just a Benefits Fix
Though the Proffitt Act is narrow in focus, it carries wider implications. Its unanimous passage comes at a time of renewed debate over policing and public safety in the United States.
In recent years, national conversations around law enforcement have been marked by division, particularly in the wake of protests, high-profile incidents, and calls to reduce police funding. But 2025 has seen a noticeable shift. Rising crime concerns, the ongoing fentanyl crisis, and increasing retirements among officers have led lawmakers on both sides to re-embrace pro-police measures.
The Proffitt Act is part of a broader push to rebuild trust in law enforcement and provide better support for officers. Cortez Masto initially proposed it as part of a larger legislative package focused on officer mental health, recruitment, and community engagement. Only two of those bills — the Proffitt Act and a measure on suicide prevention — advanced.
Roadblocks Remain
Five other pro-police bills were blocked, most notably by Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ), who argued the legislation lacked provisions for community oversight and didn’t address systemic issues. His stance drew criticism from Senate Republicans, who accused him of using officer-focused bills to push unrelated policy goals, such as immigration funding.
Despite those tensions, the passage of the Proffitt Act suggests a path forward — however narrow — for bipartisan cooperation in supporting law enforcement.
What the Bill Does
The Chief Herbert D. Proffitt Act updates the PSOB program to cover families of retired officers who are murdered as a direct result of their past law enforcement work. The change will apply retroactively, allowing families previously denied compensation to reapply for benefits.
For the Proffitt family, and others like them, it’s a long-overdue recognition of sacrifice.
A Sign of Shifting Sentiment
Beyond Washington, public sentiment appears to be moving back in favor of police. Polls show increasing trust in local law enforcement, and cultural portrayals of officers have shifted from criticism toward appreciation. Recruitment campaigns, once struggling, are gaining momentum, and new federal grants are being rolled out to support small-town departments.
Within this climate, the Proffitt Act stands as a symbolic — yet concrete — gesture that those who serve, even in retirement, deserve lasting honor and protection.
Looking Ahead
The bill is expected to reach the House floor by mid-October. If passed, it will go to President Trump, who has already expressed support and is prepared to sign it into law. The administration plans to pair the signing with announcements of new funding programs aimed at rural and community policing.
In an era of political noise and sharp divisions, the Chief Herbert D. Proffitt Act is a quiet but powerful reminder that respect, service, and sacrifice still transcend party lines.
Even after the badge comes off, the heroism remains.