Public Safety & Criminal Justice Reform
Background
Public safety is fundamental to strong communities. Families in St. Louis deserve safe neighborhoods, accountable policing, emergency preparedness, and effective violence prevention strategies. Congressman Bell’s experience as St. Louis County Prosecuting Attorney informs his approach to reducing crime while strengthening trust between communities and law enforcement.
Congressman Bell’s Position
Congressman Bell supports:
- Community-based violence prevention
- Investments in emergency preparedness and disaster response
- Accountability and transparency in public safety agencies
- Mental health and crisis intervention resources
- Strong support for first responders
- Reducing gun violence and repeat violent offenses
Legislative Actions
- Introduced the Tornado Preparedness Act to modernize tornado forecasting, warning systems, and emergency coordination through FEMA and NOAA
- Introduced the FEMA Accountability Act to improve transparency in disaster spending
- Introduced bipartisan legislation with Rep. Ann Wagner to improve USPS accountability and service reliability in St. Louis
- Supported protections for TSA, FEMA, and CISA workforce capabilities
DIVERSION & CRIMINAL JUSTICE REFORM
Congressman Bell’s Position
Congressman Bell supports:
- Diversion programs for nonviolent offenders
- Reentry and workforce opportunities
- Reducing recidivism
- Fair sentencing practices
- Community violence intervention
- Accountability within the justice system
Legislative Actions
- Introduced the BRIDGE Act to expand workforce pathways for justice-impacted individuals and opportunity youth
- Advocated for economic mobility and second-chance employment opportunities
- Supported reforms focused on rehabilitation and community stability