After introducing the bill earlier this month, United States Representative Bill Huizenga of Michigan is calling on Congress to pass legislation that would reward first responders and medical professionals who are working to combat the coronavirus.
It’s called the HEROES act, and it’s an acronym for "Helping Emergency Responders Overcome Emergency Situations." The bill would create a 4-month federal tax holiday for health professionals and first responders who are working on the front lines in the war against COVID-19, and it's the same tax relief that military service members get when they are actively serving in a combat zone. As first responders and health professionals are similarily putting their lives on the line, Rep. Huizenga, who represents Michigan's 2nd Congressional District, says a tax break is the least the government can do.
“There is a need to say ‘thank you’ to them, and it’s obviously not enough, but we think it’s a good start,” Rep. Huizenga said. “And it should be easy…we don’t have to create a new fund that has to be stood up, (where) people have to find out how to apply and all that…it’s one that we could easily use in this situation, I believe.”
To qualify, first responders and health professionals would have to work in a county with at least one COVID-19 case.
The tax break would include law enforcement officers, firefighters, paramedics, pharmacists, health professionals and support staff, as well as those working in a senior care facility.
The tax holiday could be extended for an additional three months where needed. Congress has yet to vote on the legilslation.
