Macon-Bibb County Professional Firefighters

2 days ago

🚨From the office of General President Edward Kelly🚨

Brothers and Sisters,

Earlier today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed House Resolution 1, a sweeping budget reconciliation bill that touches nearly every part of the federal budget.

While the legislation has been the subject of intense debate, the IAFF stayed focused on delivering tangible wins for our dues-paying members. That’s our job.

Over the past several months, we have worked closely with the White House and Congressional allies on both sides of the aisle to keep fire fighter issues front and center. As a result, we secured meaningful tax relief for you and your families. We also defeated serious threats to the rights and benefits of our brother and sister IAFF members who are federal fire fighters.



Key wins and provisions secured by the IAFF include:

Increased the cap on State and Local Tax (SALT) Deductions

This legislation raises the annual cap on SALT deductions from $10,000 to $40,000
It allows IAFF members to recover up to an additional $30,000 in tax payments
This is especially important for members who live in states with high income tax and high property tax rates
This increase begins in tax year 2025 and is set to expire in 2028, after which it would revert back to a $10,000 annual deduction, unless extended by Congress
Our future work will prioritize making the SALT deduction permanent

Overtime Tax Relief

The bill provides a federal tax deduction of up to $12,500 (or $25,000 for joint filers) on overtime pay for individuals earning up to $275,000 (or $550,000 for couples)
The deduction is realized when you file your federal tax return. Your overtime pay will be deducted from your overall wages, meaning you’ll owe less in federal income taxes and keep more of your earnings
This tax deduction applies to all hours worked beyond the 53-hour per week threshold for fire fighters established by the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA)
Nearly 80% of IAFF members have at least a 53-hour workweek and will directly benefit from this deduction
Those not on a 53-hour schedule would need to work more than 212 hours in a 28-day cycle to be eligible for this tax relief
This tax benefit begins in tax year 2025 and is set to expire in 2028, unless extended by Congress
The IAFF will also prioritize making this provision permanent and making the contractual overtime thresholds – defined in individual collective bargaining agreements – fully eligible for this tax deduction

Tax Savings for Retirees

On top of last year’s historic repeal of the WEP/GPO, the IAFF secured a new, stand-alone tax deduction of up to $6,000 for retirees aged 65 and older with income up to $175,000 (or $250,000 for couples)
This tax savings begins in tax year 2025 and, unless extended by Congress, is set to expire in 2028

Expanded Child Tax Credit

Increases the federal child tax credit to $2,200 per child
Helps defray the costs of childcare, education, and other expenses
This credit would begin in 2026 and is permanent

Protection for 16th District Members

Worked with bipartisan allies to block proposals from certain Republican members of Congress aimed at cutting federal fire fighter collective bargaining rights, pay, and pensions

The IAFF doesn’t take a position on every bill or every single provision in large legislative packages. We stay focused on protecting the pay, benefits, and working conditions of our dues-paying members. This approach guided our strategy and allowed us to deliver for you – whether you’re on the job or retired.

Our ability to secure these outcomes – even in a divided Congress – is a direct result of the strong relationship we have with the White House and with both parties in Congress. We’ve made it clear: fire fighter issues aren’t Republican or Democrat. They are fire fighter issues.

We will continue to be vigilant against threats and look for every opportunity to improve your lives and livelihoods.

If you have questions, please contact [email protected].

Be You. Be Strong. Be Fire Fighters.

Sincerely,
Edward A. Kelly

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Macon-Bibb County Professional Firefighters

5 days ago

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6 days ago

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Macon-Bibb County Professional Firefighters

1 week ago

📢 FOLLOW-UP to June 24, 2025 meeting

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1. Budget : Jan–Jun 2025
• Reviewed all budget expenses for the first six months of 2025

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2. Payroll & Pension
• Updates shared on current payroll studies being done
• Ongoing pension discussions—ideas welcomed!

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3. Volunteer Opportunities

🎗️ “Protect What Floats Us” Life Vest Giveaway
• When: July 5, 2025 at 10Am to Noon
• Where: Amerson River Park
Sponsered by Hummingbird Taproom (430 Cherry St, downtown Macon) and Float Daze
• What: Free life vests for parkgoers—help us keep everyone afloat!
• Support: Thanks to a generous citizen donation for vest purchase on behalf of our association

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4. Training in Development
• HAZMAT class — details coming soon
• Leadership Talk and Social: stay tuned for date & location

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5. Stay Connected
• Look out for more volunteer chances and training
• Keep updates flowing for our association & our department

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👀 Mark your calendars! Let’s keep the momentum going

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