New medal would honor officers and first responders killed on duty
Signed into lawH.R. 3497Latest action
Sponsor: Brian J. Mast · Representative · FL
AIDecoded by AI · checked against the recordRead the official text
Official title: Medal of Sacrifice Act
119th Congress
Topics: Crime & justice
Introduced:
Read the official bill on Congress.govIn plain words
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Bill creates a "Medal of Sacrifice" for officers and first responders killed in the line of duty.
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What does this do?
This bill establishes a national "Medal of Sacrifice" for law enforcement officers and first responders killed while performing their jobs. The president would issue the medal, and a 12-person unpaid Commission would design it, oversee its presentation, and review disputed eligibility cases. Officers found by their agency to have acted wrongly or outside their duties would not qualify.
Who does it affect?
The bill affects law enforcement officers and first responders nationwide, along with their families. Three named deputies—Ralph "Butch" Waller, Ignacio "Dan" Diaz, and Luis Paez—would automatically become the medal's first recipients.
Why does it matter?
The medal creates a formal, government-recognized way to honor officers and first responders killed on duty, while also placing a small volunteer commission in charge of eligibility decisions and administration.
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Based on the “Enrolled Bill” text.
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This is law.
Where does it stand?
- IntroducedMay 19, 2025
- House committee
- House vote
- Senate
- The president's desk
Right now: the president signed it. It's law.Now law
Latest action: — Became Public Law No: 119-94.