NCJ Number
123836
Date Published
Unknown
Length
7 pages
Annotation
This bill enhances the ability of law enforcement officers to combat violent crime in America by providing criminal and civil enforcement of standards established by the National Institute of Justice for body armor.
Abstract
As violence in this country continues to escalate, more law enforcement officers put their lives on the line every day protecting the public. Officers should have effective body armor which protects them from firearm violence, and this bill would ensure that they have available to them the best protection that current technology allows. The National Institute of Justice shall establish performance standards and test protocols for the capability of body armor to withstand bullets fired from firearms and for labels to be affixed by body armor manufacturers. The needs of criminal justice agencies and the safety and welfare of both male and female officers will be considered in developing these standards. As a result of the passage of this bill, no person may manufacture for sale, offer for sale, or distribute in commerce any body armor which is not in compliance with the standards of this bill. Any person who knowingly violates these standards will be subject to a civil penalty not to exceed $2,000 for each violation.