Dear Representative Bacon and Min,
I am writing on behalf of the members of the Fraternal Order of Police to advise you of our support for H.R. 3832, the “Kerrie Orozco First Responders Family Support Act.”
In the aftermath of a line of duty death, the FOP, the fallen heroes department and the community grieve together and do what they can to support the family and loved ones they leave behind. In the tragic case of Officer Kellie Orozco, who was shot and killed just days before she was to bring home her baby—a daughter that was born prematurely—she left behind a husband who faced a lengthy nationalization process while caring for their three children as a single parent. The FOP believes that the families of our first responders, who have lost a family member, should be offered an easier way to become American citizens.
Your legislation, which is modeled on the Gold Star Families program, would allow a surviving spouse, child, or parent of a U.S. citizen public safety officer who died in service or as a result of their service to apply for U.S. citizenship more quickly by waiving the five-year continuous residence and the 30-month physical presence requirements for naturalization. This bill would ensure that the legacy of our first responders is honored, by allowing their family to more easily become part of our great nation.
On behalf of the more than 377,000 members of the Fraternal Order of Police, thank you both for your leadership on this legislation. If I can provide any additional information or support for this effort, please do not hesitate to contact me or Executive Director Jim Pasco in our Washington, D.C. office.
Sincerely,
Patrick Yoes
National President