US Federal House Bill HB3366

US Federal 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/13/25
• Refer: 5/13/25

Caption

EAGLE Act of 2025

Summary

HB3366, the “EAGLE Act of 2025,” would direct the Attorney General to create a federal grant program to help local law enforcement agencies pay for qualified accreditation or re-certification. The program is aimed at agencies that can show financial need, and grant money could be used for accreditation fees, on-site assessment charges, and extension fees. The bill authorizes $10 million for fiscal year 2025, with funds remaining available until expended. The bill defines eligible accreditation as certification by a professional law enforcement organization that develops accreditation standards at the national, state, regional, or tribal level, such as CALEA. It applies only to local law enforcement agencies of units of local government that have fewer than 350 employees and are authorized to enforce criminal law. The Attorney General would be required to establish the program within 90 days of enactment.

Impact

If enacted, the bill would create a new federal grant program within the Department of Justice to subsidize accreditation and re-certification costs for smaller local police agencies. It would not directly change criminal law enforcement powers, but it would affect how eligible local agencies finance compliance with professional standards and could encourage broader adoption of accreditation practices among small departments. The bill would also add a new federal spending authorization of $10 million for FY2025.

Sentiment

The available context suggests generally positive bipartisan support for the bill’s goal of helping local law enforcement agencies meet accreditation standards. The bill was introduced by a bipartisan group of House members, including sponsors from both parties, which indicates an emphasis on practical support rather than partisan conflict. No committee debate or recorded votes are provided, so there is no evidence of organized opposition in the available materials.

Contention

The main policy issue is whether federal funds should be used to support accreditation costs for local police agencies, especially smaller departments with limited budgets. Supporters appear to view accreditation as a way to improve professionalism, standards, and accountability in law enforcement. Potential concerns, though not documented in the provided materials, could include federal spending, the administrative burden of accreditation, and whether grant eligibility should be limited to agencies under 350 employees and to specific types of professional accrediting bodies.