A bill (HR-4540) newly offered in the House would lessen the impact of the “windfall elimination provision” which reduces the Social Security benefits earned by those covered by a retirement program that does not include Social Security, including CSRS.
That formula used for determining that penalty, currently a maximum of about $460 a month, would be replaced by an alternative for those under age 62 starting in 2022; on retirement they could choose which of the two results in less of a reduction for them. Those age 62 and older and not yet retired by 2022—which would apply to the large majority of those under CSRS who are still working by that point—as well as for current retirees affected by the reduction, would receive a $150 a month refund toward the reduction. That compares with the $100 a month amount in earlier versions of the legislation.
Meanwhile, the House Science Committee has approved HR-1709, to require federal agencies involved in scientific research to issue scientific integrity policies including protections for employees against political interference in their work, freedom to publish findings and freedom to speak publicly regarding their work.
Also, Del. Eleanor Holmes Norton, D-D.C., has said she intends to offer legislation aimed at improving recruiting by federal agencies. As a preliminary step, she asked for recommendations from OPM, which she suggested might include—along with greater outreach efforts and process improvements—“improved benefits, including paid family leave, increased telework, and short-term disability insurance allowing coverage for non-work-related injury or illness or pregnancy.”
Also, Sen. Charles Grassley, R-Iowa, has said that a bill he will introduce to improve protections for private sector employees who make disclosures to financial regulatory agencies will include a provision to fully cover foreign service employees under federal employee whistleblower law protections.
