Washington, D.C.— Today, the Chief Herbert D. Proffitt Act passed the U.S. Senate and is headed to President Donald Trump’s desk. On August 28, 2012, Chief Proffitt was tragically shot and killed in his driveway by a criminal he had arrested ten years earlier. Although his murder was clearly an act of retaliation for his service, his family was denied Public Safety Officers’ Benefits (PSOB) program benefits solely because he had retired.
The Chief Proffitt Act amends the PSOB program to make retired or separated officers and their families eligible for benefits if they suffer permanent disability or death in an event related to their service. The law is retroactive to January 1, 2012, making the Proffitt family eligible for benefits.
“Chief Proffitt embodied what it means to be a model Kentuckian — a military veteran, a devoted public servant, and a law enforcement leader who protected his community with honor,” said Congressman Barr. “His murder was a clear act of retaliation, and yet his family was denied the benefits they deserved because of a technicality. The Chief Herbert D. Proffitt Act corrects that injustice. I am grateful to the Proffitt family for their strength and perseverance, and proud to lead this bill across the finish line to give them and other families across America who face similar tragedies the benefits they deserve.”
"I personally knew Herbert “Sprocket” Proffitt well. He was a great public servant who spent his entire life making my community a safer place. I’m very happy to support this legislation for his fine family,” said U.S. Congressman James Comer (R-KY), who represents Tompkinsville.
“Chief Proffitt dedicated his life to the Commonwealth of Kentucky and ultimately sacrificed his life as a result of his service. I am thrilled to see the Chief Herbert D. Proffitt Act become law to honor his sacrifice and legacy,” said U.S. Congressman Brett Guthrie (R-KY) who represents many of the Proffitt family members in Congress.
“On behalf of the entire Proffitt family, we want to express our sincere appreciation to Congressman Andy Barr for leading the Chief Herbert D. Proffitt Act,” said Jeff Proffitt, son of Chief Proffitt and the former Mayor of Tompkinsville. “We are grateful to Congressman Barr and his team for their dedication in getting this legislation enacted, and to Supporting Heroes for recognizing the need for this bill and helping start the process several years ago.”
“On behalf of the Kentucky State Fraternal Order of Police, we extend our deepest gratitude to Congressman Andy Barr for his tireless efforts in securing the passage of the Chief Herbert Proffitt Act within the FY 2026 National Defense Authorization Act,” said Scott Hildebrand, President of the Kentucky Fraternal Order of Police. “Chief Proffitt’s legacy embodies service, sacrifice, and devotion to community, and this legislation ensures his memory will continue to inspire future generations. It demonstrates to young men and women entering law enforcement that our legislators stand firmly behind those who serve—even after retirement. Congressman Barr’s commitment to honoring Kentucky’s heroes reflects his unwavering support for law enforcement and the values we uphold. We are proud to recognize his leadership and dedication to preserving the legacy of one of our own. Congressman Barr continues to honor and support the men and women in law enforcement, and the 12,000 members of the Kentucky Fraternal Order of Police are deeply thankful.”
“FLEOA strongly supports this commonsense legislation to strengthen the Public Safety Officer’s Benefits program and ensure the families of retired law enforcement officers targeted by criminals for violence due to their former service are eligible for PSOB benefits,” said Mat Silverman, National President of the Federal Law Enforcement Officers Association (FLEOA). “The PSOB program is a lifeline for federal, state, and local officers who are killed or permanently injured in the line of duty. We are grateful to Representative Andy Barr and the bill’s supporters for their leadership and steadfast commitment to the law enforcement community.”
“This legislation closes a long-standing gap in federal law, delivering fairness and dignity to the families whose loved ones have paid the ultimate price. It also reinforces our solemn obligation to law enforcement professionals who confront danger every day to keep our communities safe,” said Bert Eyler, President of the Police Officers’ Defense Coalition.
“The Chief Herbert D. Proffitt Act makes an important change that will assist families during a challenging time. Approving this measure is the right thing to do and honors the service and sacrifice of both law enforcement officers and their families,” said the Major Cities Chiefs Association.