Congressman Abe Hamadeh (R-AZ) celebrated a major victory this week as the U.S. House of Representatives voted in favor of over $7 million in funding for Arizona's 8th Congressional District.
Although Rep. Hamadeh successfully pushed the funding through the House, the legislation must still clear the Senate before the money can be distributed. Hamadeh seeks to deliver on his promise to support local first responders and veterans.
The approved funding package includes:
- Nearly $2.9 million for Peoria to purchase a police helicopter
- $1.9 million for Phoenix to acquire a helicopter training simulator
- Roughly $1 million for Surprise to buy 15 patrol vehicles
- $1 million for Glendale to upgrade police radio systems
- $500,000 for Arizona State University (ASU) to establish a veterans' legal assistance center
Hamadeh expressed satisfaction with the House vote and emphasized his commitment to first responders and military veterans, stating, "I'm proud to have secured more than $7 million in federal funding for critical projects that will strengthen our local law enforcement agencies, allowing for increased training of our law enforcement professionals and giving them the equipment they need to proudly serve our residents," he stated.
Hamadeh's Support and Initiative
The congressman's background highlights the importance of the ASU legal services program. "As a veteran myself, I am proud to see that my colleagues demonstrated that they share my commitment to providing our nation's veterans with the justice they so richly deserve through today's vote," Hamadeh continued.
However, he made it clear that the process isn't finished. "Now, it is up to our senators to do their job and get this to President Trump's desk," he said, adding pressure to the Senate to move forward with the legislation.
Mayors across the West Valley thanked Hamadeh for his support. Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego (D-AZ) said the training simulator will improve officer safety while reducing costs.
Glendale's Mayor Jerry Weiers (R-AZ) noted the new radios will make neighborhoods safer, while Surprise Mayor Kevin Sartor (R-AZ) called it a win for public safety. Peoria Mayor Jason Beck (R-AZ) emphasized the commitment to the police and firefighter community within Hamadeh’s package.
Additionally, ASU's veterans center director, Shawn Banzhaf, thanked Hamadeh on behalf of over 24,000 veterans, explaining the Veterans Legal Services Hub will help them transition successfully to civilian life.
The funding package now awaits consideration in the Senate.
