A $15 million two-year body armor grant program is now in place to assist law enforcement and first responders in purchasing armor, duty weapons, ammunition, electronic control devices, and body-worn cameras.

According to the Office of the Attorney General, 20% of Kentucky law enforcement officers have expired body armor or none at all.

The body armor grant program will be administered by the Attorney General’s Department of Criminal Investigations (DCI). Law enforcement agencies interested in applying for a grant should visit the Attorney General’s website.

“Every day, the courageous men and women of Kentucky law enforcement put their lives at risk to protect our families. They deserve our strong support and high-quality equipment to keep them safe in the line of duty,” Attorney General Russell Coleman said. “Together with our partners in the General Assembly, we are directing this critical equipment straight to those who need it most.”  

Senate Appropriations and Revenue Committee Chair Chris McDaniel said the safety and well being of Kentucky’s law enforcement is a priority for the Kentucky General Assembly.

“Launching the Body Armor Grant Program is a significant step in providing our officers with the essential protection they need and deserve,” McDaniel said. “This program and its funding exemplify our unwavering commitment to protecting those who protect and serve. I thank Attorney General Coleman and his office for leading the program’s administration, and I encourage law enforcement agencies to make the most of this available funding.”

House Appropriations and Revenue Chair Jason Petire also thanked Coleman for his stewardship of the body armor program, and ensuring first responders have the protections they need.

“We owe these men and women our gratitude, but also our commitment to providing them the tools they need to successfully do their jobs,” Petrie said. “I look forward to seeing the impact this investment will have on public safety.”