Dear Representative Pascrell,
I am writing on behalf of the members of the Fraternal Order of Police to advise you of our support for H.R. 5342, the “Supporting America’s First Responders Act,” which would establish a new “above-the-line” deduction for law enforcement and other public safety officers. It is our understanding that this language will be incorporated into H.R. 5377, the “Restoring Tax Fairness for State and Localities Act.”
There are still some jurisdictions in which officers must purchase and maintain their own uniforms. In many jurisdictions, professional development training or classes, like learning a second language or advanced criminology courses are also out-of-pocket expenses that many of our officers incur. Your bill, H.R. 5342, will amend the tax code to allow public safety officers to take tax deductions for their uniforms and for tuition or related fees for professional development courses. This legislation will enable, or perhaps encourage, officers to invest in themselves, thereby making them more valuable to their agency and, ultimately, better officers for their community.
As always, I thank you on behalf of the more than 350,000 members of the Fraternal Order of Police for your continued leadership on law enforcement issues and for your commitment to improving the lives and safety of law enforcement officers. If I can provide any additional support for this bill or on any other matter, please do not hesitate to contact me or Executive Director Jim Pasco in my Washington, D.C. office.
Sincerely,
Patrick Yoes
National President
cc:The Honorable Richard E. Neal, Chaianal\ Committee on Ways and Means
The Honorable Kevin P. Brady, Ranking Member. Co1mnittee on Ways and Means