“As a law enforcement officer for more than a decade, I committed myself to fairly and compassionately enforcing the laws enacted by our elected officials. In Congress, I will use that experience to enact laws that bring much-needed change to our criminal justice and penitentiary systems, which often fail to help those who most need our support.”
The United States ranks first among all nations with the largest percentage of citizens incarcerated, and Louisiana consistently has the highest crime rates in the United States, as well as one of the highest rates of recidivism.
For too long our judicial system has punished the less fortunate for crimes of survival. The penitentiary system was never designed to be a punishment – it was instead intended to be a means of rehabilitation, providing a penitent person the means to become a productive member of society.
I will continue to strongly advocate for the much-needed reform of America’s prisons.
Additionally, I am committed to promoting programs that build communities’ trust in local law enforcement. Attacks on police have sharply increased in recent years, and in 2016 Louisiana ranked third in police fatalities nationwide.
To keep our communities safe, this matter must be addressed from all sides, by patriot Americans of every color and creed. In the U.S. House of Representatives, I will be a loud voice for my brothers of the thin blue line and their families, who sacrifice so much to protect and serve.
More on Law & Crime
Higgins Urges Governor Edwards to Sign Pro-Gun Bills
LAFAYETTE, LA – Congressman Clay Higgins (R-LA) is calling on Governor John Bel Edwards to sign four pro-gun bills that passed through the Louisiana State Legislature.HB 746, allows those who...
Higgins Votes Against Flavored E-Cigarettes Ban
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Clay Higgins (R-LA) issued the following statement after voting against H.R. 2339, a bill that would ban flavored tobacco products."I don't smoke, and I encourage all...
Higgins Announces Grant Opportunities for Law Enforcement, First Responders
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Clay Higgins (R-LA) invited local officials to apply for federal grant programs assisting law enforcement organizations and first responders. In a letter to all...
Higgins Issues Statement on Expanded Travel Restrictions
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Clay Higgins (R-LA) participated today in a briefing with Chad Wolf, acting Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security, regarding President Trump's authorization...
Higgins Votes Against Amnesty for Illegal Immigrants
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Clay Higgins (R-LA) voted against H.R. 5038, the Farm Workforce Modernization Act of 2019. The bill would effectively grant amnesty and a path to citizenship to over...