Senator Moody Fights for Affordable Homeownership for Florida Law Enforcement Officers

The HELPER Act is a Top Priority for Senator Moody and the First Bill She is Sponsoring as Florida’s Newest U.S. Senator

WASHINGTON, D.C.— As a strong supporter of law enforcement, Senator Ashley Moody today filed her first bill to make homeownership more obtainable for Florida heroes. The Homes for Every Local Protector, Educator, and Responder (HELPER) Act would establish a program to provide mortgage assistance to law enforcement officers, firefighters, and other first responders. Primary and secondary teachers would also be eligible for the home loan program with the Federal Housing Administration that would be established through the HELPER Act.

Senator Ashley Moody said, “Florida is the most pro law enforcement state in the nation. Over the past six years, while many other states and cities disparaged and cut funding for law enforcement, I fought for raises, bonuses, relocation assistance, and other benefits to show these officers that we value their service. The HELPER Act is the next great step in ensuring these heroes know we appreciate their hard work and sacrifices. It will also help them purchase a home in the community where they serve. As the wife of a law enforcement officer, I see firsthand the sacrifices made each day. Standing up for the LEO community will always be a top priority of mine, and I am proud that my first bill in the U.S. Senate will help them make their dream of homeownership a reality.”

Prior to appointment to the U.S. Senate, Senator Moody served as Florida’s Attorney General, a circuit judge, and a federal prosecutor. Senator Moody is also married to a career law enforcement officer. Throughout her career in the judicial system, Senator Moody fought to ensure Florida law enforcement had the tools and support needed to protect and serve. Senator Moody also worked to bridge the gap between law enforcement and the communities they serve:

1. In 2019, Attorney General Moody launched the Back the Blue campaign to highlight law enforcement officers, citizens and organizations taking extraordinary steps to forge positive relationships between law enforcement and the communities they serve.
2. In 2020, Attorney General Moody was appointed to President Donald Trump’s Commission on Law Enforcement and the Administration of Justice. The Commission explored modern issues affecting law enforcement that impact the ability to reduce crime. 
3. In 2020, Attorney General Moody announced a new statewide number, **TIPS, that anyone can call to anonymously report crime. Dialing **TIPS from any cellphone will automatically route the caller to the closest Crime Stoppers office. 
4. In 2021, Attorney General Moody started Be a Florida Hero, a recruitment initiative that encourages jobseekers or law enforcement officers in other states to pursue a law enforcement career in the Sunshine State. Individuals who answer the call to be a Florida hero are eligible to receive signing bonuses, scholarship programs and out-of-state relocation support. 
5. In 2021, Attorney General Moody launched the Thin Line Tribute initiative to recognize front-line law enforcement officers for their bravery and unrelenting efforts.
6. In 2022, Attorney General Moody worked with Governor DeSantis and legislative leaders to create incentives and bonuses for new Florida law enforcement officers—including a $5,000 sign-on bonus, academy scholarship program, equivalency training costs and more.
7. In 2022, Crime Stoppers USA adopted Florida’s statewide crime reporting tip line, **TIPS, to be used nationwide.
8. In 2023, Attorney General Moody, alongside Gov. Ron DeSantis, supported bail reform legislation to help keep dangerous criminals off the streets. 
9. In 2023, Attorney General Moody launched Helping Heroes, a program that provides free naloxone to law enforcement officers and other first responders on the front lines of the opioid crisis.
10. In 2024, Attorney General Moody, alongside sheriffs and business leaders, released the Stronger Safer Cities Report – a roadmap for building and maintaining a safe, prosperous Florida. The research report was conducted by the Florida Sheriffs Association’s Research Institute and the Florida Chamber of Commerce. 
11. In 2024, Attorney General Moody welcomed numerous new law enforcement officers who moved from other states and answered the call to become a Florida hero through the new Sunshine Salute Series.
12. In 2024, Attorney General Moody worked with state lawmakers to secure funding for the Applied Mental Health Certificate for Law Enforcement program.
13. In 2024, Attorney General Moody worked with state legislative leaders to expand the First Responder Hope Line statewide to help first responders struggling with mental health challenges.

Earlier this year, Police1 recognized Attorney General Moody as one of the “Got Your Six” National Champions of Law Enforcement. This award recognizes those who have made exceptional contributions in backing the blue across the country. 

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