Dear Representatives Figures and Ezell,
I am writing on behalf of the members of the Fraternal Order of Police to advise you of our support for H.R. 10551, the “Public Service Educational Assistance Act.”
Public servants are the backbone of America, serving in vital roles that ensure the safety and well-being of their communities every day. As law enforcement in America faces a critical recruitment and retention crisis, and as postsecondary education becomes more expensive and crucial in our modern world, it is vital that the Federal government ensures that our public servants have the necessary funding and opportunities to receive postsecondary education.
Your legislation would establish a Federal educational assistance program covering the full cost of post-secondary education for the dependents of law enforcement officers and other public employees. These funds would be used for the cost of tuition, fees, books, and other relevant expenses incurred by eligible post-secondary education institutions. This program would only be available to law enforcement veterans with at least 20 years of qualifying service, providing a compelling incentive for officers to remain in law enforcement.
On behalf of the more than 382,000 members of the Fraternal Order of Police, thank you both for your leadership on this important issue. If I can be of any help or provide additional information in support of this legislation, please do not hesitate to contact me or Executive Director Jim Pasco in our Washington, D.C. office.
Sincerely,
Patrick Yoes
National President