Page 3 - profiles in civil service program 2018 version

INTRODUCTION

very American benefits from the work of federal employees every day. Federal
Eemployees inspect our food supply and ensure that medical devices are safe and

effective; they conduct research that advances our understanding of disease; and they
ensure that our airline flights land safely.

As they carry out their daily work in accomplishing the government’s mission, federal
workers are unsung heroes. Policymakers and the public are often unaware that
government employees save taxpayer dollars by improving financial operations and

developing innovative solutions to our nation’s biggest problems. Federal employees
often put the needs of our nation above their own, and their contributions have improved
the quality of life for all Americans.

Yet, federal employees have come under attack. The federal community, both
employees and retirees as well as their survivors, are confronting unprecedented
challenges to their earned pay and benefits that jeopardize their financial security.

Reductions in benefits are being actively considered. These proposals would renege on
the government’s promise to pay the full amount of their retirement annuities – which
includes cost-of-living adjustments (COLAs) – in exchange for years of hard work over

long careers. Retirement contribution levels would be increased, without a
corresponding increase in benefits. The annuity supplement would be eliminated for all
federal retirees, including those positions that have mandatory retirement ages that force

workers to retire early.

The National Active and Retired Employees Association (NARFE) is working to secure
the futures and advocate for the earned pay and benefits of federal civilian employees

and annuitants. The origins of NARFE can be traced to the beginnings of the civil
service system, and the organization was formed in 1921. Today, NARFE is the largest
federal employee/retiree organization, and represents the interests of nearly 5 million

federal annuitants, spouses and survivors.

Richard G. Thissen Barbara Sido
President, NARFE CEO, NARFE