IN SOUTH CAROLINA
PENSION REFORM
As proud members of the Public Safety Coalition, we actively engage in advocating for pension reform within the South Carolina General Assembly. Our commitment is unwavering as we tirelessly work to safeguard the pension benefits that our law enforcement heroes rightfully deserve. In addition to championing pension reform, we are at the forefront of the battle against the current return-to-work restrictions for retirees.
FARGO’S AND HYCO’S LAW
Our steadfast commitment to justice is exemplified by our strong support for the passage of South Carolina House Bill 3247, known as Fargo’s and Hyco’s Law. This crucial legislation seeks to enhance penalties for those who harm or, tragically, kill law enforcement animals. As advocates for the brave men, women, and K-9 companions who selflessly serve our communities, we believe in the importance of recognizing and addressing the unique challenges faced by these dedicated partnerships.
INCREASING SUBSISTENCE DEDUCTION
We proudly stand in support of Senate Bill 969, a crucial piece of legislation aimed at enhancing the working conditions and recognizing the dedicated service of our law enforcement officers in South Carolina. This bill proposes amendments to the subsistence deduction and volunteer exemption, aligning with our mission to advocate for the well-being of those who tirelessly safeguard our communities. Join us in endorsing Senate Bill 969 and advocating for positive changes that will positively impact the lives of our law enforcement professionals.
LAW ENFORCEMENT BILL OF RIGHTS
As advocates for the men and women who dedicate their lives to protecting our communities, we firmly stand behind the passage of a Law Enforcement Officers’ Bill of Rights. This crucial legislation is designed to safeguard the rights and privileges of our law enforcement professionals, ensuring fair treatment, due process, and protection from unwarranted scrutiny. At SCFOP, we believe in fostering a supportive environment for those who risk their lives to keep us safe, and advocating for the implementation of a Law Enforcement Officers’ Bill of Rights is a key step towards achieving this goal.
NATIONALLY
Support the “Social Security Fairness Act”
The FOP strongly supports legislation to restore full Social Security benefits for law enforcement officers by repealing both the “Windfall Elimination Provision” (WEP) and the “Government Pension Offset” (GPO).
Support the “Public Safety Employer-Employee Cooperation Act”
The FOP strongly supports legislation to guarantee the right of public employees to bargain collectively with their employers over hours, wages and conditions of employment. Such legislation should mandate that State laws provide minimum collective bargaining rights to their public safety employees while prohibiting strikes and lockouts. States with collective bargaining laws already on the books would be exempt from the Federal statute. Such legislation is unlikely to be introduced in this Congress.
Support H.R. 964, the “Law Enforcement Officers’ Equity Act”
The FOP strongly supports legislation expanding the definition of “law enforcement officer” for salary and retirement benefits to include all Federal law enforcement officers.