The International Union of Police Associations strongly opposes the proposed constitutional amendment to reduce or eliminate local property tax revenues without first providing a permanent, reliable replacement to fund essential public safety services.
Property taxes are the financial backbone of local law enforcement, fire protection, emergency medical services, and other critical government functions. Removing that revenue without a guaranteed alternative places every community at risk.
Public safety is not an experiment. It is irresponsible to ask voters to approve a constitutional amendment that could weaken police protection, increase emergency response times, and undermine the ability of local governments to recruit, retain, train, and equip first responders.
The I.U.P.A. supports responsible tax relief. We do not support shifting the financial burden onto the backs of law enforcement officers and the communities they serve.
Florida’s citizens deserve tax reform that protects both taxpayers and public safety. Until a fully funded replacement plan is presented, the International Union of Police Associations joins many other public safety organizations in our opposition and urges voters to reject this proposal.
NOTE: Originally chartered in 1979, the International Union of Police Associations is the only chartered labor union that exclusively represents law enforcement personnel. The I.U.P.A. represents active-duty, rank and file law enforcement professionals and emergency medical personnel nationwide – including the U.S. Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico. The I.U.P.A.’s mission is to protect and advance officers’ wages, benefits, and work conditions. Membership includes officers from agencies throughout the United States, including the U.S. Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico.
Comments