Press Releases

Washington, DC – U.S. Rep. Marc Molinaro (R-NY-19) today introduced the bipartisan Tools Tax Deduction Act. This bill delivers a tax deduction for expenses incurred by union workers and skilled laborers for essential tools and equipment required for their professions. The bill draws inspiration from the successful tax deductions in Canada, which have proven effective in easing financial burdens for individuals entering apprenticeship and pre-apprenticeship programs. Rep. Molinaro introduced this bill with U.S. Rep. Nikki Budzinski (D-IL-13).

Specifically, the Tools Tax Deduction Act establishes an above-the-line deduction for employees if such deductions are for construction tools, personal protective clothing and gear and other expenses in connection with their employment. The bill has been endorsed by the International Union of Operating Engineers, United Association of Journeymen and Apprentices of the Plumbing and Pipefitting Industry, Construction Employers of America, International Union of Bricklayers and Allied Craftworkers, the Laborers’ International Union of North America and the International Union of Painters & Allied Trades. 

Rep. Molinaro said, “Today, we are taking a bold and innovative step to support union workers, skilled laborers, and address barriers to entry in high-demand fields like the Building Trades. The Tools Tax Deduction Act of 2023 will encourage workers to enter apprenticeship and pre-apprenticeship programs by offering a tax deduction for essential tools and work-related expenses. This bill will open doors for workers in Upstate New York.”

L. Todd Diorio, President of the Hudson Valley Building & Construction Trades Council said, “The Tools Tax Deduction Act of 2023 is commonsense. It’s going to break down barriers to entry for those entering apprenticeship and pre-apprenticeship programs. I commend Congressman Molinaro for working to advance this pro-worker bill.”

Sean McGarvey, President of the North American Building Trades Unions said, “The job can't be done right if you don't have the right tools. Not only will this legislation ensure construction workers have the right equipment, but it will also help building trades working families balance their own budget and keep food on the table. We commend and thank Congresswoman Budzinski and Congressman Molinaro for the introduction of this legislation to help all construction workers.”

Rep. Budzinski said, “The upfront cost of purchasing tools is a barrier for too many folks interested in pursuing a career in the building trades. As we work to get more men and women into good-paying union jobs, we have to make sure they can afford the equipment they need to succeed. Today, I’m proud to introduce bipartisan legislation with Congressman Marc Molinaro that will make it easier for apprenticeship employees and construction workers to afford the equipment their jobs require.”