President Trump’s “One Big Beautiful Bill Act” earns support from emergency workers who say it puts more money back in their pockets
America’s first responders are standing behind President Trump’s push to deliver major tax relief to working families. The International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF)—the largest firefighters union in North America with over 350,000 members—has officially endorsed key tax provisions in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act.
The union praised the bill’s efforts to cut taxes on overtime pay and raise the state and local tax (SALT) deduction cap, two changes that directly benefit the middle class and those working long hours to protect American communities.
“Firefighters and emergency medical workers shouldn’t be penalized for serving their country,” said IAFF President Edward Kelly. “President Trump respects our work and is making sure we can keep more of our paychecks.”
Trump’s Tax Relief Plan Targets Hardworking Families
The One Big Beautiful Bill Act is the centerpiece of President Trump’s America First economic agenda, packed with conservative priorities like:
- Extending the 2017 Trump tax cuts
- Eliminating taxes on qualified tips and overtime
- Increasing the senior deduction by $4,000
- Boosting border security and national defense
- Driving American energy independence
The legislation’s overtime tax exemption applies to Americans earning up to $160,000 per year, a move the IAFF says will provide a “necessary fix” for workers clocking long hours, especially in emergency and public service roles.
Higher SALT Deduction Cap Helps Middle-Class Americans
The bill also raises the SALT deduction cap from $10,000 to $40,000, with a phase-out beginning at $500,000 in income. For residents in high-cost states, this means more take-home pay and less IRS burden—a major win for middle-income taxpayers.
“These changes are smart, targeted, and meaningful,” Kelly added. “They improve our members’ quality of life and help them stay focused on what really matters—protecting our communities.”
GOP Eyes Independence Day for Final Passage
The House narrowly approved the bill in May, and it now moves to the Senate for final review. If amended, it will return to the House before heading to President Trump’s desk. Republican lawmakers hope to see it signed into law by the Fourth of July—a symbolic moment for restoring economic freedom to American families.
Though the IAFF remained neutral in the 2024 election, its support for Trump’s tax cuts signals a shift among working-class union members, many of whom feel sidelined by liberal economic policies. The IAFF represents first responders who protect over 85% of the population across the U.S. and Canada.
Bottom Line:
President Trump’s tax plan is winning praise from the very Americans who keep us safe. With meaningful relief for seniors, workers, and families, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act is shaping up to be a landmark win for Main Street, not Washington elites.