Pathways to Policing Act

This bill sets up competitive grants to help states, cities, and police departments recruit new officers and build “Pathways to Policing” programs. The Justice Department must start awarding these grants within 180 days of the law taking effect. Money can be used for two things: marketing/recruitment and Pathways programs, with no more than half of a grant going to each. Grant recipients must file a yearly report on how they used the funds.

It also gives priority to applicants who recruit people from underrepresented communities or with nontraditional backgrounds, and to those bringing in candidates who live in, or will move to, the communities they will serve. The Attorney General must launch a nationwide recruitment campaign within one year, consult with law enforcement groups and community organizations, and create materials that states and local agencies can use. The bill authorizes $50 million per year for 2026–2030 for the grant program, plus $50 million per year for 2026–2030 for the national campaign .

• Who is affected: States, local governments, police departments, and people interested in policing—especially those from underrepresented groups and local residents.
• What changes: New competitive grants for recruitment and Pathways programs; annual reporting; priority for underrepresented and community-based hiring; nationwide recruitment campaign and shared materials; 50% cap on each use of grant funds .
• When: Grants begin within 180 days of enactment; the national campaign starts within one year; funding runs from fiscal years 2026 through 2030 .