H.R.759 - Federal Firefighters Families First Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R. 759, the Federal Firefighters Families First Act, aims to amend Title 5 of the United States Code to address pay equality and retirement benefits for federal firefighters. The bill seeks to improve pay parity with other federal employees and municipal firefighters, enhance recruitment and retention, and ensure that all regularly scheduled hours are included in retirement benefit calculations. It also directs the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) to establish a maximum regular workweek for federal firefighters, not exceeding an average of 60 hours per week.
Expected Effects
The likely effect of this bill is an increase in the compensation and retirement benefits for federal firefighters. This could lead to improved morale and retention rates within the federal fire service. The establishment of a maximum workweek could also impact staffing levels and overtime costs.
Potential Benefits
- Improved Morale: Increased pay and better retirement benefits can boost morale among federal firefighters.
- Enhanced Recruitment and Retention: More competitive compensation packages can attract and retain qualified individuals.
- Fairer Retirement Calculations: Including all regularly scheduled hours in retirement calculations ensures firefighters receive appropriate benefits.
- Standardized Workweek: Establishing a maximum workweek provides clarity and consistency in work schedules.
- Potential for Increased Public Safety: Better staffing and more experienced firefighters could improve the quality of federal fire services.
Potential Disadvantages
- Increased Costs: Higher pay and benefits will likely increase the financial burden on the federal government.
- Potential for Overtime Costs: If the maximum workweek is set too low, it could lead to increased overtime expenses.
- Possible Discrepancies: Setting a maximum workweek might create discrepancies between different fire departments or regions.
- Administrative Burden: Implementing the new regulations and calculating benefits could create an administrative burden for OPM.
- Potential for Unintended Consequences: Changes to pay and benefits could have unforeseen impacts on other federal employee groups.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the general welfare clause of the Constitution, as it aims to improve the lives and well-being of federal firefighters. Article I, Section 8 grants Congress the power to provide for the general welfare of the United States. The bill's provisions regarding pay, benefits, and work conditions seem to fall within this purview. However, the specific details of implementation and the potential costs would need to be carefully considered to ensure fiscal responsibility.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).