3/25/08: Representative Jim Moran (D-VA) recently introduced H.R. 5573, legislation to provide a lump sum payment to employees retiring under the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS). The bill was cosponsored by Representatives Frank Wolf (R-VA) and Tom Davis (R-VA). To review the bill, click here, H.R. 5573.

NTEU National President Colleen Kelley sent a letter to Representatives Moran and Wolf last year pointing out the inequitable treatment of unused sick leave for FERS retirees. Unlike their CSRS colleagues, FERS employees do not receive any credit for unused sick leave when they leave federal service. Both groups of employees are dedicated public servants, and both groups deserve to have the sick leave counted. Under H.R. 5573, FERS retirees would receive 15% of their salary’s average hourly rate for unused sick leave that exceeds 500 hours, capped at $10,000. While the lump sum will differ among retirees and is not as large as NTEU would like to see, this bill provides some benefit where there is currently none.

The measure is currently pending in the Federal Workforce Subcommittee of the House Committee on Oversight and Government Affairs. NTEU will continue to work towards its enactment.