Dear Representatives Zinke and Davis,
I am writing on behalf of the members of the Fraternal Order of Police to advise you of our support for H.R. 6120, the “Strengthening Resources for Our Schools (SROs) Act.”
Those who choose to serve in law enforcement possess a strong dedication to public service, so it is no surprise that even after officers retire, they continue to seek ways to serve their communities. One of those ways that retired officers can continue to contribute is by serving as School Resource Officers (SRO). These officers help to protect and mentor our children in schools on a day-to-day basis. As gun violence threatens our children in schools, it is critical that we take measures to better protect them.
Your legislation will amend existing law to offer a Federal income tax exemption on retirement pay for any officer or veteran who chooses to serve as a SRO. Additionally, this legislation grants a lifetime exemption on Federal income tax for those who serve more than 10 years as a SRO. This legislation would not only reward our retired officers who choose to serve in this role, but incentivize officers to continue their law enforcement career in a position that helps protect our children.
On behalf of the more than 382,000 members of the Fraternal Order of Police, I thank you both for your leadership on this issue. If I can provide any additional assistance or information, please do not hesitate to contact me or Executive Director Jim Pasco in our Washington, D.C. office.
Sincerely,
Patrick Yoes
National President