Kean Introduces Presidential Security Bill to Bridge Crucial Gaps in Funding
(August 19, 2024) WASHINGTON, DC - Congressman Tom Kean, Jr. (NJ-07) has introduced the Presidential Security Resources Reimbursement Act of 2024, a bill to authorize Secret Service to reimburse State and local governments for the use of services, personnel, equipment and facilities.
Following the assassination attempt on President Donald Trump on July 13, 2024, the Secret Service has requested enhanced protections for past presidents and presidential candidates during travel, as well as increased security measures for major public events, to ensure the safety of all involved and prevent further threats. Currently, when Secret Service utilizes local resources for additional security, the funding comes out of the local government’s budget, a cost that is not always accounted for or reimbursed, which strains local funds and resources.
The Trump National Bedminster is located in the 7th Congressional District of New Jersey.
“The Secret Service can fully accomplish their mission when they have robust partnerships with local law enforcement agencies,” said Congressman Kean. “Currently, a significant amount of that partnership is funded by small-town taxpayers and local budgets. I wrote this commonsense legislation to ensure that adequate resources are readily available to supplement each and every security plan. The Secret Service protects Americans leaders and must execute that function flawlessly every day."
“I recently called Congressman Kean when the Secret Service made a request of our township for additional law enforcement resources to supplement the protection around Trump National Golf Club and to dedicate township fire and first aid resources to the property,” said Larry Jacobs, Mayor of Bedminster. “Bedminster has always been willing to step up and answer the call to keep every resident in our town safe, and that includes the former President. We fully appreciate the Secret Service’s request, especially in light of the July 13th assassination attempt. However, this request could easily run into six figures and is simply too much for our small town to foot. The Congressman’s ‘Presidential Security Resources Reimbursement Act of 2024’ is the exact solution to bridge the gap that my town, and I am sure towns across our country are experiencing in these unique circumstances. I thank Congressman Kean for leading to get this fixed.”
“Somerset County is always ready to support the Secret Service when needed to protect a President or other dignitary, and understands the vital role local law enforcement and first responders play,” said Somerset County Commissioner Director Shanel Robinson. “Mobilizing at the levels required, however, often comes at significant fiscal cost to local governments and we are fully on board with this legislation to authorize reimbursements to local law enforcement for their patriotic services.”
“We cannot allow government bureaucracy to play politics with the safety of high-profile leaders,” said State Senator Doug Steinhardt. “The near-assassination former President Trump was an awful wakeup call that security measures and partnerships need to be fortified. I will be working hard to make sure all levels of government are working in lock step to keep President Trump safe at Bedminster.”
Full text of the bill can be found HERE.
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