Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

Us Congress Senate Bill SB1658

Introduced
5/17/23  

Caption

Law Enforcement Officers Parity Act

Impact

If enacted, the bill would significantly change the landscape of retirement benefits for federal employees in law enforcement roles. By broadening the definition to encompass additional job titles within various agencies—including the Internal Revenue Service and U.S. Customs and Border Protection—employees who perform law enforcement-related duties would have access to improved retirement benefits. This amendment aims to recognize the risks associated with these positions and ensure that they are compensated appropriately upon retirement.

Summary

SB1658, also known as the Law Enforcement Officers Parity Act, seeks to amend title 5 of the United States Code by expanding the definition of a law enforcement officer for retirement purposes. The bill, introduced by Senator Booker and co-sponsored by Senator Vance, aims to ensure that more federal employees, specifically those involved in law enforcement activities, are classified as law enforcement officers for retirement benefits. This includes certain positions that were previously excluded but perform similar duties such as investigating or apprehending individuals suspected of criminal offenses.

Contention

One point of contention surrounding the bill is the potential financial implications for federal retirement systems. Opponents may argue that expanding the definition could lead to increased costs for retirement benefits programs, causing a strain on the Civil Service Retirement and Disability Fund. Additionally, there could be concerns regarding the criteria for designating positions as law enforcement roles and the administrative burden associated with these changes. Stakeholders will likely debate the balance between providing adequate benefits to employees and the sustainability of the retirement system.

Companion Bills

US HB1322

Related Law Enforcement Officers Equity Act

Previously Filed As

US HB1322

Law Enforcement Officers Equity Act

US HB3226

Law Enforcement Officers Equity Act

US SB2695

Parity for Tribal Law Enforcement Act

US HB4524

Parity for Tribal Law Enforcement Act

US HB3381

National Law Enforcement Officers Remembrance, Support and Community Outreach Act

US SB2272

Wildland Firefighter Paycheck Protection Act of 2023

US HB3752

Parity Enforcement Act of 2023

US SB1640

Empowering Law Enforcement Act of 2023

US HB3407

Empowering Law Enforcement Act of 2023

US SB1137

DHS Suicide Prevention and Resiliency for Law Enforcement Act

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