Federal bill would fund trauma training for police and EMTs who respond to assault survivors

What does this do?

HR 3121 would establish a federal grant program administered by the Department of Health and Human Services to fund trauma-informed training for law enforcement officers and EMTs. New recruits would be required to complete at least eight hours of training, while officers and EMTs already working would need at least four hours every year. HHS would also maintain a public, searchable online directory of qualified trainers.

Who does it affect?

State, local, and tribal law enforcement agencies and emergency medical services organizations would be eligible to apply for the grants. Survivors of sexual assault, domestic violence, dating violence, and stalking would be directly affected by changes in how first responders interact with them.

Why does it matter?

The training is designed to help first responders recognize when their words or actions may unintentionally cause additional harm to survivors. HHS would be required to report annually to Congress on grant recipients, training effectiveness, case prosecution outcomes, and survivor feedback.

What does it cost, and who pays?

• No funding amount specified
• Grants are one year in duration
• HHS administers the program