Source: National Association of Police Organizations.
January 30, 2026
The Honorable Brian Fitzpatrick
The Honorable Marie Gluesenkamp Perez
U.S. House of Representatives
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Representatives Fitzpatrick and Gluesenkamp Perez:
On behalf of the National Association of Police Organizations (NAPO), representing approximately 250,000 sworn law enforcement officers across the United States, I am writing to you to advise you of our strong support for H.R. 7210, the Fuel the Force Act.
Law Enforcement agencies across the country serving urban, rural, big, and small communities are struggling to enlist and retain qualified candidates to help alleviate staffing shortages. A 2024 survey from the International Association of Chiefs of Police on the recruitment and retention of law enforcement officers shows more than 70% of responding agencies are having more difficulty recruiting qualified candidates than they did five years ago. 65% of responding agencies have reduced or eliminated agency services, units, and positions because of staffing difficulties. On average, agencies are operating at a 10% staffing deficit, putting additional stress and strains on their officers, many of whom are forced to work overtime to cover the shortages.
The survey also found that officers are most likely to resign within the first five years on the job. By providing $100,000 in annual Federal income tax exclusion to full-time federal, state, and local law enforcement officers who remain on the job for five or more years, the Fuel the Force Act would play a vital role in ending our recruitment and retention crisis. The retention of good, qualified officers not only helps law enforcement agencies ensure they can protect and serve our communities efficiently and effectively, but it also improves officer morale, working conditions, and officer mental health and wellness.
We thank you for your leadership on this issue and we look forward to working with you to pass this important legislation. If we can provide any further assistance, please feel free to contact me at: (703) 549-0775.
Sincerely,
William J. Johnson, Esq.
Executive Director
