Boston Firefighters Back Key Tax Breaks in Trump’s New Tax Reform Bill “Big Beautiful Bill”
Boston, MA — The leadership of Boston Firefighters Local 718 has expressed support for key tax provisions included in former President Donald Trump’s latest tax proposal, highlighting potential benefits for firefighters and their families.
In a video posted by the official White House Instagram account, Local 718 President Sam Dillon and Vice President Leroy Heyward joined national union leaders to endorse parts of Trump’s proposed tax reform package, informally referred to as the “One Big Beautiful Bill.”
Dillon explained that the union’s involvement focuses on measures within the legislation that could bring significant tax relief for those in public safety roles. “We were given the opportunity to speak about provisions that would positively impact firefighters and their families,” Dillon said in a recent interview.
Key Provisions Backed by the Union
Among the tax changes supported by the union are:
- Reduced federal taxes on overtime pay for firefighters
- A proposed increase in the State and Local Tax (SALT) deduction cap, moving it from $10,000 to $40,000
- Additional retirement benefits for fire department retirees
“These tax reforms could provide immediate financial relief to our members,” Dillon noted. “They help ensure our firefighters can continue living in the communities they serve.”
Heyward emphasized the broader impact, stating that an additional $4,000 in tax breaks could make a real difference for many — potentially helping with essentials like rent, mortgage payments, or groceries.
Union Maintains Non-Partisan Stance
Despite ongoing political tensions between the city’s leadership and the Trump administration, Dillon stressed that the union’s support is non-partisan.
“We’ve worked with both Republican and Democratic administrations in the past,” Dillon said. “Our focus remains on advocating for the best interests of our members, regardless of politics.”
Boston’s Mayor Michelle Wu has publicly opposed some federal policies tied to Trump’s agenda, including aspects related to immigration enforcement and federal funding cuts tied to sanctuary city status. Nevertheless, the union’s endorsement centers specifically on the tax elements that affect local firefighters.
The broader bill also includes controversial measures such as proposed cuts to Medicaid and green energy funding, as well as a $350 billion allocation toward national security and immigration enforcement.
Dillon clarified that the union’s support is solely focused on the parts of the legislation that impact firefighters’ financial well-being, and does not represent a political endorsement.
“We’ll have conversations with anyone — from any party — if it means improving the lives of our members and their families,” he said.
