House Bill 2073 gives volunteer firefighters, reserve police officers and reserve sheriff's deputies a tax deduction of $500. The bill passed the House Wednesday by a vote of 96 to one. The bill will now proceed to the Senate for a hearing.
"These men and women are doing the state a heroic service even though they do not get paid anything for their time and risking their lives - this is all volunteer," Smithson said. "We need to give them something to show the state's appreciation. I am glad my fellow House members agreed."
This tax deduction is expected to save the 11,525 Oklahoma volunteer firefighters and 4,052 reserve police officers a combined $428,000.
To be eligible for the tax deduction, a volunteer firefighter or reserve officer would have to be either Council on Law Enforcement Education Training certified or a certified fireman.
"Many of these volunteers are using their previous law enforcement training to aid Oklahoma in emergency situations with no reimbursement," Smithson said. "It is time we help them and let them know their dedication and hard work are appreciated."
