Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

Us Congress House Bill HB1301

Introduced
3/1/23  

Caption

Federal Employees Civil Relief Act

Impact

Should this bill be enacted, it will significantly alter the landscape for federal employees facing financial challenges during a government shutdown. Key provisions include protections against evictions, allowing federal workers to apply for stays or adjustments related to rent and mortgage obligations, as well as a suspension of defaults on student loans. More specifically, lenders would be prohibited from initiating collection activities against federal workers during a covered shutdown period without court approval. Furthermore, it places limitations on the accrual of penalties or interest on deferred tax payments, providing a safety net for affected employees.

Summary

House Bill 1301, titled the 'Federal Employees Civil Relief Act', is designed to protect federal employees and contractors during periods of government shutdowns or breaches of the statutory debt limit. The primary aim of this bill is to suspend certain civil liabilities that may negatively impact the civil rights of federal workers, specifically during lapses in appropriations. The legislation seeks to provide temporary relief for various obligations including student loans, mortgages, and tax payments, ensuring that federal workers are not adversely affected by financial burdens during such critical periods.

Contention

The discussion surrounding HB1301 reveals notable support for the protection of federal workers, which proponents argue is essential to safeguard the rights of those affected by involuntary furloughs or work without pay. Critics, however, might express concerns about the broad scope of the protections provided and the implications for lenders and landlords, who may face limitations on their ability to enforce financial agreements. There is potential for debate on the balance between providing necessary relief for federal workers and protecting the rights of other stakeholders affected by such deferments.

Companion Bills

US SB640

Same As Federal Employees Civil Relief Act

Previously Filed As

US SB640

Federal Employees Civil Relief Act

US SB1545

Furloughed federal employees & contractors; civil relief.

US HB856

Comprehensive Paid Leave for Federal Employees Act

US HB1261

Federal Employees Sustainable Investment Act

US HB1080

COVID–19 Federal Employee Reinstatement Act

US HB843

Federal Police Camera and Accountability Act

US HB5171

Federal Employee Pay Compression Relief Act of 2023

US HB3627

Beautifying Federal Civic Architecture Act

US HB872

FISH Act Federally Integrated Species Health Act

US SB274

Comprehensive Paid Leave for Federal Employees Act

Similar Bills

US SB640

Federal Employees Civil Relief Act

US HB1733

Kids in Classes Act

US HB3352

Improving Diaper Affordability Act of 2023

US HB5739

Shutdown Guidance for Financial Institutions Act

US HB5728

Government Shutdown Impact Report Act of 2023

US HB5587

My Constituents Cannot Afford Rebellious Tantrums, Handle Your Shutdown Act

US HB5758

To amend title 31, United States Code, to reimburse employees of the Federal Government and the District of Columbia, Federal contractors, and the States for certain costs incurred as a result of a Government shutdown, and for other purposes.

US SR364

Shutdown Accountability Resolution