Bill Would Expand Federal Funding for Bulletproof Police Vehicles

Lawmakers are advancing a federal bill that would expand grant eligibility to cover bullet-resistant windows and other security upgrades for police patrol vehicles.

By Monica Faram

Source Clinton Herald, Iowa

May 27, 2026

2 min read

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A proposed federal bill would allow law enforcement agencies to use federal funding to upgrade patrol vehicles with safety features such as bulletproof windows.
Supporters say the measure would expand existing grant flexibility, helping agencies better protect officers as concerns about attacks on police and vehicles increase.
Backed by police organizations and introduced during National Police Week, the legislation mirrors similar efforts in Texas that fund armored vehicle upgrades for local agencies.

Bulletproof Law Enforcement Vehicles Act introduced — A newly introduced bill in the U.S. House of Representatives would allow law enforcement agencies to use federal funding for bulletproof vehicle upgrades, giving departments more flexibility to protect officers amid rising safety concerns.

U.S. Rep. Roger Williams, R- Austin, recently introduced the Bulletproof Law Enforcement Vehicles Act, legislation aimed at expanding the use of federal funds to enhance the safety of law enforcement vehicles.

The bill would amend the Homeland Security Act of 2002 to allow federal financial assistance to cover vehicle security upgrades, including bulletproof windows for police vehicles.

Introduced during National Police Week earlier this month, the legislation is designed to support federal, state and local law enforcement agencies as concerns over attacks targeting officers continue to grow. The measure would provide departments with additional flexibility to strengthen officer protection while on duty.

“During National Police Week, I am proud to introduce the Bulletproof Law Enforcement Vehicles Act,” Williams said. “We honor the sacrifices of our fallen officers and recognize the unwavering commitment of those who continue to serve and protect our communities. As attacks on law enforcement and their vehicles increase, Congress must ensure police forces have the tools they need to adequately protect their officers.”

Supporters of the legislation say many law enforcement agencies currently face limitations in using existing federal grant funding for critical vehicle safety improvements. The proposed bill would specifically authorize certain federal assistance programs to fund vehicle security enhancements, helping departments improve protection for officers responding to dangerous situations.

The legislation also notes that agencies such as ICE could access federal resources under the measure to improve vehicle security.

The proposal mirrors efforts already underway in Texas. Programs such as the Texas Vehicle Armor Grant — authorized under Texas House Bill 2217 — have provided millions of dollars to equip state and local patrol vehicles with NIJ Level IIIA bullet-resistant components.

In addition to Williams, cosponsors include Wesley Hunt, Mike Haridopolos and Pat Fallon.

Organizations backing the legislation include the Texas Municipal Police Association, the Police Officers’ Defense Coalition and the Fraternal Order of Police.

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