On the recordJuly 6, 2016
I thank the chairman so very much. To the manager of the bill on the floor, my good friend who is representing the majority, I think not one of us can cite an example in which a Federal employee is not engaged in serving this Nation. Mr. Chair, over the last couple of months, our focus has been on the Transportation Security Officers. As I traveled back to Washington and as I interacted with my constituents, many were concerned about airport travel and the enhancement of security. I saw TSO officers--government workers--on the front lines. We see them all the time as they serve this Nation--from homeland security to, certainly, those who are working in the health areas now as we face the epidemic of Zika. In many places, Federal employees stand in the gap by serving us. We look forward to bright young people who are graduating from college and who are seeking service in the Federal army, if you will, of civilian workers who serve their Nation. I can only say that this legislation, H.R. 4361, disappoints me, because, first of all, title III would double the probationary period for Federal employees, unlike in the private sector, from 1 to 2 years. Federal employees would be at will. They wouldn't have benefits, and they wouldn't be protected. That is not, certainly, an enticing recruitment for young, bright college graduates.…
