Buchanan Introduces Measure Providing New Resources for Law Enforcement Responding People with Alzheimer's

Representative Vern Buchanan (R-FL) – the Vice Chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee and Chairman of the Health Subcommittee – has introduced the Alzheimer’s Law Enforcement Education Act alongside Representative Nanette Barragán (D-CA). The legislation would provide new resources for law enforcement officers responding to Alzheimer’s patients.

The bill has received support from both the Alzheimer’s Association and multiple local and national law enforcement departments and groups.

Rep. Buchanan stated that this issue is “paramount” and necessary for law enforcement to engage with those with Alzheimer’s properly.

“I’m thrilled to introduce this bipartisan legislation with Congresswoman Barragán to ensure our nation’s law enforcement are better trained and equipped when dealing with delicate situations involving Alzheimer’s patients,” said Congressman Buchanan. “As someone who represents one of the oldest districts in the country, I believe it’s paramount that our nation’s law enforcement officers have the tools necessary to ensure folks with Alzheimer’s are treated with dignity and respect in emergency situations.”

Furthermore, Rep. Barragán added that it is “critical” for law enforcement to be able to respond to situations regarding people with the disease.

“A majority of those living with Alzheimer’s will wander at some point. As someone who cares for a parent with Alzheimer’s, I understand how critical it is that law enforcement officers know how to best respond to situations involving someone living with Alzheimer’s or other types of dementia,” said Representative Barragán. “That is why I am proud to co-lead the Alzheimer's Law Enforcement Education Act with Rep. Buchanan. This bipartisan bill would provide law enforcement with the resources to encounter people with Alzheimer’s with care so they can get home and be reunited with their loved ones quickly and safely.”

Moreover, the chief public policy officer of the Alzheimer’s Association and president of the Alzheimer’s Impact Movement (AIM) endorsed the bill.

“Without awareness and training on how to interact with individuals living with Alzheimer’s and other dementia, situations involving law enforcement can often escalate. The Alzheimer’s Law Enforcement Education Act would prevent these misunderstandings in communities throughout the nation,” said Egge. “Thank you to Reps. Vern Buchanan and Nanette Barragán for introducing this bipartisan legislation and for your steadfast dedication to the Alzheimer’s community.”

Additionally, Bradenton Chief of Police Melanie Bevan supported the measure, saying it would “further reinforce our commitment to protecting vulnerable citizens’ financial and physical well-being and we are proud to support the efforts of Congressman Buchanan.”

Vern Buchanan represents Florida’s 16^th Congressional District.