HOLMES BEACH, Fla. — Congressman Vern Buchanan and Holmes Beach Chief of Police William Tokajer have jointly authored an op-ed in the Sarasota Herald-Tribune advocating for Congress to exempt overtime pay from federal income taxes for law enforcement officers.
“Our law enforcement officers deserve our full support, and exempting their overtime pay from taxes will make a significant difference in their lives,” Buchanan stated. He expressed his intent to pass the “One Big, Beautiful Bill” to realize this proposal nationwide.
The op-ed highlights the challenges faced by law enforcement officers who work extended hours beyond standard shifts, particularly in smaller departments like Holmes Beach with only 19 full-time sworn officers. These officers often miss personal events due to their duties and currently face taxation on their overtime earnings as ordinary income.
Buchanan and Tokajer argue that Congress should act to change this situation. They believe exempting overtime pay from federal taxes would provide financial relief, enhance officer retention and recruitment, and serve as a symbolic recognition of the sacrifices made by these public servants.
The authors emphasize that such a policy could have immediate effects in communities like Holmes Beach, where police resources are stretched during tourist seasons. They also note that tax-free overtime could help younger officers afford basic expenses such as daycare or home savings.
“This is not a partisan issue,” they assert, noting broad support for eliminating the federal tax on overtime among law enforcement groups like the National Fraternal Order of Police. The op-ed concludes with a call for Congress to enact this change as both practical support and respect for law enforcement families’ contributions.
Rep. Vern Buchanan serves as vice chairman of the Ways and Means Committee and chair of the Health Subcommittee. Chief William Tokajer leads the Holmes Beach Police Department after serving in various other Florida law enforcement agencies and receiving commendations including a Purple Heart and Medal of Valor.
