The resolution commemorates the week of May 11 through May 17, 2025, as "National Police Week" in the State of Rhode Island, honoring the sacrifices made by police and law enforcement officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty. This observance aligns with the national recognition established by President John F. Kennedy in 1962, which designates May 15 as National Police Officers Memorial Day. The resolution highlights the significant risks faced by law enforcement, citing statistics from 2023 that report 164 officers killed in the line of duty and thousands more assaulted while performing their duties.

The resolution emphasizes the importance of remembering and honoring the bravery of these officers, with a historical context noting that since 1791, there have been 26,921 known line-of-duty deaths, including 54 from Rhode Island. It also mentions the annual gathering in Washington D.C. during National Police Week, where approximately 40,000 attendees come together to pay tribute to fallen officers. The resolution concludes by directing the Secretary of State to transmit certified copies to relevant law enforcement organizations, ensuring that the commemoration is recognized and respected throughout the state.

Introduced By: Senators Tikoian, Lawson, Ciccone, Patalano, and Appollonio
Date Introduced: May 13
Referred To: Recommended for Immediate Consideration