Elijah Cummings: “Madam Speaker, as of early September, more than 6.5 million acres, more than two times the 10-year national average…”

“Madam Speaker, as of early September, more than 6.5 million acres, more than two times the 10-year national average, have burned. Federal manpower resources were spread thin. More than 29,000 people were involved in firefighting efforts, including approximately 2,500 Army soldiers and Marines and fire managers from Canada, Australia, Mexico, and New Zealand. In addition, 1,200 fire engines, 240 helicopters and 50 airtankers were in use this season. If nothing else, this fire season has taught us that we must take steps to recruit and retain more Federal firefighters. H.R. 460 is a step in that direction. From the start of the Civil Service Retirement System in 1920 until 1978, all Federal workers were required to retire at age 70, if, at that age, they had completed at least 15 years of service. In 1978, mandatory retirement was repealed for most Federal workers; although, it continues to apply to special occupational groups whose duties pertain to public safety. Under current law, Federal law enforcement officers must retire at age 57 or as soon after that age as they complete 20 years of service. The agency head may grant exemptions up to age 60. Federal firefighters must retire at age 55 or as soon thereafter as they complete 20 years of service. H.R. 460 would raise the mandatory retirement age for firefighters to mirror that of Federal law enforcement officers.”