"The FOP and our friends at the International Association of Fire Fighters have been working topass this legislation for more than a decade," Canterbury said. "Because of our joint efforts and our bipartisan approach, we scored a tremendous victory this afternoon. Together, we'll work to get it through the Senate and then onto the President's desk."

The legislation, introduced jointly by Representatives Dale Kildee (D-MI) and John J. Duncan, Jr. (R-TN), would recognize the right of public safety employees to bargain collectively over hours, wages, and working conditions. The legislation currently has two hundred and seventy-eight (278) cosponsors, more than a majority of the House. The bill was favorably reported by the Committee Education and Labor in June on a 42-1 vote.

"As law enforcement officers, we take our oath and commitment to protect and serve very seriously," Canterbury said. "Public safety occupations are unique, and their labor relations need to reflect that. Ours is not the traditional labor-management relationship. In our line of work, the bottom line is the safety of the public and of the officer."

The legislation now goes to the Senate for further consideration.

The Fraternal Order of Police is the largest law enforcement labor organization in the United States, with more than 325,000 members.