After months of collectively laying the groundwork with the county council and county executive's office, the FOP and IAFF met to discuss the public safety officer property tax credit, which is currently $2500 for active officers.
Some background: This credit was authorized by state law and implemented by county law. This year, the state lifted restrictions on the definition of who is eligible and lifted restrictions on how much the credit could be for (formerly $2500). Therefore, it is up to the county to decide eligibility and the amount of the credit.
During the meeting with the IAFF, we decided to join together in asking the county to increase the tax credit and include retirees as eligible for the credit. We brought our request to the county council....
On 12/4/23, Bill 91-23 was introduced. This bill, at the request of the FOP and IAFF, raises the tax credit from $2500 to $3000 for the tax year beginning on July 1, 2024, AND raises it again to $3500 for the tax year beginning on July 1, 2025. It also adds retired members as eligible for the credit.
As of 12/6/23, all seven council members have either already co-sponsored the legislation or committed to adding their name as a co-sponsor.
This all but assures a 7-0 vote. Just to be sure, make sure you reach out to your council member and THANK THEM FOR THEIR SUPPORT. Look up your council member and email them!
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