Recognizing the visionary leadership of Chief Richard LaMunyon and the profound global impact of the Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics.
- Bill Number
- H.Con.Res. 76
- Origin Chamber
- House
- Congress
- 119th Congress, Session 2
- Policy Area
- Crime and Law Enforcement
- Status
- Introduced
- Latest Action
- 2026-03-05: Referred to the Committee on Foreign Affairs, and in addition to the Committee on the Judiciary, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.
- Last Updated
- 2026-03-09T19:31:32Z
AI-Generated Summary
Purpose of the Legislation
This concurrent resolution (H. Con. Res. 76) aims to honor the founding contributions of Wichita, Kansas, Police Chief Richard LaMunyon to the Law Enforcement Torch Run (LETR) program and to acknowledge the program's worldwide role in supporting Special Olympics. As a concurrent resolution, it expresses the collective sentiment of both the House of Representatives and the Senate but does not create enforceable law or require presidential approval.
Key Provisions Outlined
The resolution consists of a series of "Whereas" clauses providing historical context, followed by a "Resolved" section with three main directives:
- Historical Background: Details Chief LaMunyon's involvement starting in 1979, including his emotional experience at the Special Olympics Kansas State Summer Games, his commitment to support athletes financially, and the launch of the first "Flame of Hope" run in 1981, which raised about $300. It highlights collaboration with Special Olympics founder Eunice Kennedy Shriver and the program's expansion from a local Wichita event to a global initiative.
- Program Growth and Impact: Notes that LETR now operates in all 50 U.S. states, all Canadian provinces, and over 25 other countries, involving more than 150,000 law enforcement officers annually and raising over $1.1 billion since 1981 to aid individuals with intellectual disabilities.
- Congressional Actions:
- Recognize Chief LaMunyon's visionary leadership in founding LETR.
- Commend the 150,000 participating law enforcement officers for promoting community inclusion through the "Flame of Hope."
- Celebrate LETR's ongoing "roaring flame of stability" for the global Special Olympics movement.
The resolution was introduced on March 5, 2026, by Representative Estes and referred to the House Committees on Foreign Affairs and the Judiciary for review.
Significant Changes to Existing Law Introduced
None. This is a non-binding resolution that does not amend, repeal, or enact any statutes. It serves solely as a formal expression of congressional appreciation.
Potential Impacts
- On Government Agencies: Minimal direct impact; it may encourage law enforcement agencies (local, state, and federal) to continue or expand participation in LETR, potentially fostering stronger ties between police and community organizations like Special Olympics.
- On Citizens: Symbolic recognition could raise public awareness of Special Olympics and the role of law enforcement in supporting people with intellectual disabilities, promoting inclusivity and fundraising efforts. No enforceable obligations or benefits are created for individuals.
- On International Relations: Indirectly positive, as it highlights a U.S.-originated program's global reach (involving Canada and over 25 countries), which could enhance international goodwill toward U.S. law enforcement and disability advocacy initiatives.
Main Stakeholders Affected
- Chief Richard LaMunyon: Directly honored for his foundational role.
- Law Enforcement Officers: Over 150,000 participants commended for their ongoing involvement.
- Special Olympics and Athletes: The organization and individuals with intellectual disabilities benefit from the recognition of LETR's fundraising and support efforts.
- Communities and Families: Indirectly affected through increased visibility of programs that reduce financial burdens and build bonds between athletes and officers.
Notable Legal, Constitutional, or Political Implications
- Legal: No implications, as concurrent resolutions lack the force of law and cannot direct executive actions or allocate funds.
- Constitutional: Aligns with Congress's broad authority under Article I to express its views on matters of public interest, without infringing on other branches of government.
- Political: Demonstrates bipartisan congressional support for community service, disability rights, and law enforcement's positive societal role. It could serve as a platform for members of Congress to highlight local heroes and global outreach, potentially influencing future appropriations or resolutions related to disability programs, though it carries no binding weight.
This summary was generated by AI and may contain inaccuracies. Refer to the official source document for the authoritative text.
Sponsor
Recent Actions
- 2026-03-05: Referred to the Committee on Foreign Affairs, and in addition to the Committee on the Judiciary, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.
- 2026-03-05: Referred to the Committee on Foreign Affairs, and in addition to the Committee on the Judiciary, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.
- 2026-03-05: Submitted in House
- 2026-03-05: Submitted in House
Bill Versions
- Recognizing the visionary leadership of Chief Richard LaMunyon and the profound global impact of the Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics. — issued 2026-03-05 — PDF (3 pages)