BATON ROUGE — Law enforcement officers across the state could soon be more protected thanks to some new legislation. During this legislative session, two bills made their way through the state House and Senate, and were signed into law by Governor Landry.
Governor Landry first signed Senate Bill 96, which creates the “Fallen Heroes” specialty license plate and takes effect August 1, 2026. All proceeds will go to the Capital Area Law Enforcement Foundation (CALEF) to buy bulletproof vests. CALEF’s mission is to protect local law enforcement officers by equipping them with the best possible ballistic vests, through donations.
Meanwhile, Senate Bill 143 took a little bit longer of a journey through the legislature. After passing in the Senate, it went to the House, where they passed it with amendments. The senate adopted amendments added to the bill and Governor Landry recently signed it. It will create a new state fund to help law enforcement agencies purchase bulletproof vests for officers across the state.
“I believe it’s a great day for law enforcement in Louisiana when the entire House and Senate understand the jobs and dangers that officers face every day keeping us safe. It’s about time that we realize the importance of keeping officers safe,” CALEF President and former Baton Rouge Police Chief Pat Englade told UWK. “Many thanks to Senator Rick Edmonds for taking these bills to the legislature and pushing them towards passage.”
Life-saving vests
CALEF partnered with Angel Armor, a Fort Collins-based company known for making Otterbox phone cases.
“Working with Angel, they’ve come a long way in helping us succeed with the quest we’ve been on to make that thing lighter, better, and more protective,” Englade told UWK in January. “It will bring the risk down on anything: A-R 15, 307, almost any rifle. Now this new vest will protect them from that.”
Angel Armor vests are something James Tullier believes could have saved his son’s life. His son, Nick Tullier, an East Baton Rouge Sheriff’s Deputy, was tragically shot while on duty in 2016. Nick fought for five and a half years until his passing in May 2022.
“The bullet that went through his abdomen went through his bulletproof vest, if you want to call it that,” James told UWK. “These vests that most cops are issued, they’re good for pistol protection, not rifle protection.”
James even referenced the bill, indicating it’s one he stands behind.
“I know it’s in the legislature right now as we’re speaking, to approve those angel armor vests. That’s what cops need,” he continued. “It’s about time for our government to come up for air, and realize the situation we put cops in, and realize the protection we need to make available to them. Let’s give them what is sufficient for the job. No. Give them the best. They’re giving you their best, so why not return a favor?”
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