McConnell Sponsors the ‘Don’t Tax Our Fallen Public Safety Heroes Act’
September 12, 2014
WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell announced his support today for the “Don’t Tax Our Fallen Public Safety Heroes Act,” which clarifies that both federal and state death benefits for the survivors of law enforcement officers killed in the line of duty should be treated the same and not be subjected to federal income tax. Survivor benefits for federal law enforcement officers are currently not subject to federal income tax, but there is some ambiguity about the treatment of these benefits for similar state-based programs.
“This legislation is about honoring the sacrifices of the front-line in protecting Kentucky communities, state and local law enforcement officers, and ensuring the surviving families of those killed in action are treated the same as federal officers,” Senator McConnell said. “I have heard from friends in Kentucky law enforcement who support this common sense measure and I proudly stand with them, and I hope the Senate takes action to honor our first responders.”