Source: National Association of Police Organizations.
The Washington Report: The Newsletter of the National Association of Police Organizations
February 6, 2026
NAPO Backs Bill to Help with Recruitment and Retention NAPO pledged our support for the Fuel the Force Act, H.R. 7210, introduced by Representatives Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA) and Marie Gluesenkamp Perez (D-WA), which would provide $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.
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. 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.
View NAPO’s letter of support here.
