More than $7 million in federal funding is one step closer to reaching Arizona’s West Valley, following U.S. House approval this week of a package aimed at strengthening police resources and expanding legal services for veterans.

The funding, designated for projects in Arizona’s 8th Congressional District, was advanced by Republican Congressman Abe Hamadeh. The measure now moves to the Senate for consideration before it can be signed by President Donald Trump.

If enacted, the federal dollars would support a series of public safety upgrades across multiple Valley police departments:

•  Peoria Police Department would receive $2.85 million to purchase a new police helicopter for its Public Safety Aviation Unit, replacing aging equipment and improving air‑support reliability.
•  Phoenix Police Department would be awarded $1.9 million for a helicopter training simulator designed to enhance training for Air Support Unit flight crews.
•  Glendale Police Department would receive $1 million to upgrade officer radio and communication systems.
•  Surprise Police Department would receive $999,000 to buy 15 customized police cruisers to support patrol operations.

In addition to law enforcement investments, the package includes $500,000 for the Arizona State University Veterans Legal Service Hub. The funding would expand legal assistance for veterans statewide, including help with service‑connected criminal charges, discharge status upgrades, disability claims, and other complex legal needs.

Supporters say the combined initiatives would modernize critical public safety tools while addressing long‑standing gaps in veteran legal services.

Source: AZ Family