Gallego Files “Border Security Tax Relief Act”
Washington, D.C.: Congressman Pete Gallego (TX-23) filed the “Border Security Tax Relief Act” which would ease the burden border patrol agents experienced as a result from sequestration. This bill temporarily exempts Administratively Uncontrollable Overtime (AUO) from income tax for a year while Congress addresses sequestration. The bill gives Border Patrol Agents the option to include AUO as part of their taxable income if it is to their benefit when claiming the earned income tax credit.
“The men and women who provide security along our border have been hit particularly hard by sequestration,” said Congressman Gallego. “They should not have to pay for irresponsible budget decisions made by the previous Congress. It’s our responsibility to protect those who are on the front line protecting our nation.”
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For Border Patrol Agents, Administratively Uncontrollable Overtime (AUO) has become a core part of their income. Unfortunately, the manufactured budget crisis known as sequestration has led to many reductions in the amount of AUO worked.
“Reduced work hours make it extremely challenging for dedicated agents to meet their mortgage payments, pay their healthcare expenses, plan for retirement, or help their children attend college,” added Congressman Gallego.
The 23rd Congressional District runs 800 miles along the Texas-Mexico border and includes five points of entry. Issues relating to trade and commerce, our ports of entry, and our men and women who work in the Border Patrol significantly impact the district.
“With 800 miles of border and five ports of entry, the issues that affect our agents greatly impact all of us. It’s our turn to do our part and stand with Border Patrol Agents, just as they stand with us in their service,” concluded Gallego.
Congressman Gallego previously co-sponsored legislation to alleviate the effects of sequestration on Department of Defense civilian employees.