Improving Police CARE Act

This bill sets clear rules for trauma kits that police and other law enforcement can buy with federal Byrne JAG grant money. It defines a “trauma kit” as a first aid kit that includes tools to stop life‑threatening bleeding. Agencies can only use these grant funds to buy kits that meet new performance standards. They may also buy the parts separately and assemble their own kits, as long as the finished kits meet the standards .

Within 180 days after the law takes effect, the Bureau of Justice Assistance must publish the kit standards and optional best practices. These best practices may cover officer training, putting kits in patrol cars, and placing kits in police or other government buildings. Each kit must include items like a recommended tourniquet, a bleeding control bandage, gloves, a marker, blunt‑ended scissors, simple “Stop the Bleed” or similar instructions, a bag to hold everything, and other approved supplies that can treat serious injuries and fit in a ready‑to‑use kit .

• Who is affected: State, local, and Tribal law enforcement agencies using Byrne JAG funds; the public benefits from faster first aid at emergencies .
• What changes: Grant‑funded kits must meet national performance standards; agencies get guidance on training and where to keep kits; agencies can assemble compliant kits from parts .
• What’s in each kit: A vetted tourniquet, bleeding bandage, gloves, marker, blunt scissors, clear instructions (like “Stop the Bleed”), a proper bag, plus other approved trauma supplies .
• When: Standards and best practices must be published within 180 days of enactment .