John Kerry: “But after the legislation is enacted, the Member will still receive a refund of all of their personal…”

“But after the legislation is enacted, the Member will still receive a refund of all of their personal contributions--those will not be taken away--into either the Federal Employees Retirement System or the Civil Service Retirement System, and they will retain all the benefits from the Thrift Savings Plan. Also, the payment of spousal benefits is permitted in forfeiture cases when the Attorney General determines that the spouse cooperated with Federal authorities in the conduct of a criminal investigation. This can significantly improve our Government by the way business is done. I hope my colleagues will join overwhelmingly in voting to prohibit sending pension checks to criminals. This amendment is a step in the right direction.”