National Night Out Resolution

Full Title:
Recognizing August 5, National Night Out, the national coming together of Americans all over the Nation to unite and promote public safety.

Summary#

This House resolution recognizes August 5 as National Night Out and encourages communities and public safety agencies to use the day to promote public safety and better relations between residents and local law enforcement. The resolution is a formal, non-binding statement by the House of Representatives. Its stated goal is to promote community building and public safety awareness.

  • Main change: The House formally recognizes National Night Out and urges law enforcement and public safety departments to use the event to strengthen relationships with residents and to inform people about contacting 911 and how public safety work is done.
  • Scope claimed in the text: The resolution cites participation of over 38 million neighbors in more than 17,000 communities for over 40 years, and it includes U.S. territories and military bases.
  • No new legal powers or funding: The resolution does not create new laws, programs, or funding.

What it means for you#

  • Residents and neighbors: The resolution encourages local events where you can meet police and public safety workers, learn how to contact 911, and hear about what those workers do.
  • Local law enforcement: The House asks departments to use National Night Out to improve relationships with the communities they serve. This is an encouragement, not a requirement.
  • Public safety departments (fire, EMS, 911 centers): The resolution urges these departments to inform communities about how to reach emergency services and how they carry out duties.
  • Communities in U.S. territories and on military bases: The resolution explicitly includes these places as part of National Night Out efforts.
  • Government agencies and taxpayers: The text does not direct agencies to change policy or spend money. It is a statement of support and encouragement.

Expenses#

No publicly available information.

  • The resolution does not authorize federal spending or create new federal programs.
  • The text does not include a fiscal estimate or budget language.
  • Any costs would come from local agencies or community groups if they choose to hold events. The resolution does not require or fund those activities.

Proponents' View#

  • The bill appears intended to encourage better relationships between residents and local law enforcement.
  • It aims to increase public awareness of safety and how to contact emergency services.
  • The resolution highlights long-standing, wide participation (over 38 million people in over 17,000 communities) to show the event’s reach.
  • Supporters may see the resolution as a simple, low-cost way for Congress to promote community policing and public safety awareness.

Opponents' View#

  • One concern is that the resolution is symbolic only. It does not require action or provide funding to change police-community relations.
  • The text does not explain how progress would be measured or how outreach would reach all communities equally.
  • It does not address broader or deeper public safety issues beyond encouraging participation in the event.
  • Any costs for running or expanding local events would fall on local governments or community groups, not the federal government.