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The SFI Blog

From breaking news analysis for our military community, to issue explainers, to calls-to-action – explore SFI to learn more about our mission and your role in it.

The 2022 Defense Bill: Demilitarize our Police

SFI 1033 Program Explainer

The U.S. House of Representatives is debating the big annual defense bill THIS WEEK! And there’s one amendment in particular we need your help supporting: the Johnson-McClintock Amendment #534.

Right now, the military sends its excess weaponry to police offices across the country. But these weapons of war do NOT belong on our streets! Amendment 534 seeks to prevent the most extreme weapons (like tanks and grenade launchers) from getting transferred, while still allowing regular equipment (like office supplies) to go through. We need this reform to make neighborhoods safer and protect civilian-military relations.

Here are 3 things you can do today to help:

#1: Call your Member of Congress

  • Call the Congressional switchboard: (202) 224-3121
  • Ask to be connected to your Representative’s office (you can look up their name here)
  • Leave the following message:

I’m a constituent and a military [spouse/family member/veteran/etc.]. I’m calling to urge Representative [name] to vote YES on NDAA amendment 534 (Rules Vote 36). This amendment will restrict the most dangerous military weapons from being transferred to domestic law enforcement offices. This issue is important to me because [insert person reason here]. Thank you for your help!

BONUS: Are there other Representatives you have a connection to? A district you’ve lived in before, or a district you still vote in even though you’ve moved? You can call them, too!

#2: Sign a Petition

A group of partner organizations have put together a grassroots petition to urge Congress and the President to take action. Add your name to the petition here! Petitions like these help remind policymakers how many grassroots supporters back an issue.

#3: Share with 3 Friends

Triple your impact by passing this along to some fellow advocates!

We spend all year talking about how to be an effective advocate. Now is our chance to put these skills into action. Time to get off the bench and get in the game. Thanks for your help making positive change!

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