House Republicans Seek Fair Compensation for All Federal Law Enforcement Officers

WASHINGTON, D.C. — House Republicans sent a letter to Scott Kupor, Director of the U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM), highlighting differences in how some federal law enforcement officers are classified for retirement purposes that do not provide the same retirement benefits currently afforded to other law enforcement personnel.

Members noted the discrepancies in the application of the definition of “law enforcement officer” for federal retirement purposes, leaving people who perform critical law enforcement duties ineligible for the enhanced retirement benefits they deserve. These brave men and women carry firearms, wear protective equipment, are authorized to arrest criminal suspects, and put their lives on the line every day.

By ensuring their retirement classification appropriately reflects their responsibilities, the Trump Administration can help create a stronger, more effective law enforcement workforce. Members specifically request a review of the Department of War Police Officers, Pentagon Force Protection Agency, Department of Veterans Affairs Police, and Department of Homeland Security Federal Protective Service.

“Next week marks the 25th anniversary of the September 11 attacks, and yet thousands of federal police officers who protect our citizens and federal property and enforce the law are not appropriately compensated for their duty. These police officers are not considered ‘law enforcement officers’ for federal retirement purposes and do not receive the enhanced federal law enforcement retirement benefits they deserve. While these brave men and women carry firearms, wear protective equipment, are authorized to arrest criminal suspects, and place their lives on the line every day, an inadequate application of the definition of ‘law enforcement officer’ has led to significant recruitment, retention, and morale challenges.”

“Federal law enforcement officers receive enhanced retirement benefits compared to other federal employees. However, not all federal employees who perform law enforcement duties are considered federal law enforcement officers for retirement benefits. The Government Accountability Office published a report on this topic last year which highlighted broad disparities in how federal agencies classify and pay law enforcement officers. This is a significant issue that must be addressed.”

The letter was led by Reps. Rob Wittman (VA-01) and co-signed by RSC Chairman August Pfluger (TX-11), Pete Stauber (MN-08), Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01), Ryan Mackenzie (PA-07), Jen Kiggans (VA-02), Thomas Kean (NJ-07), Andy Barr (KY-06), John Rutherford (FL-05), Rob Bresnahan (PA-08), Derrick Van Orden (WI-03), Don Bacon (NE-02), Chuck Edwards (NC-11), Mike Haridopolos (FL-08), Stephanie Bice (OK-05), Randy Weber (TX-14), Tom Barrett (MI-07), Lance Gooden (TX-05), John McGuire (VA-05).