CLEAN Public Service Act
CLEAN Public Service Act
Plain Language Summary
# CLEAN Public Service Act Summary **What the Bill Would Do** The CLEAN Public Service Act would eliminate pension benefits for members of Congress going forward. Specifically, it would prevent current and future lawmakers from enrolling in the two main federal retirement systems (the Civil Service Retirement System and the Federal Employees Retirement System) after the bill passes. This means Congress members would no longer receive government contributions toward their retirement or have automatic deductions from their paychecks for retirement savings. However, they could still participate in the Thrift Savings Plan, a 401(k)-style investment option available to federal employees. **Who It Affects and Key Details** This bill primarily affects members of Congress, though it would only apply to future retirement benefits—existing pensions would not be taken away. The bill's intention appears to be reducing what supporters view as overly generous congressional retirement benefits.
Members could still save for retirement through the Thrift Savings Plan, but without the government matching contributions they currently receive. The bill was introduced by Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA) in the current Congress. **Current Status** As of now, the bill is in committee and has not advanced further in the legislative process. It has not been passed by either chamber of Congress.
CRS Official Summary
Citizen Legislature Anti-Corruption Reform of Public Service Act or the CLEAN Public Service ActThis bill excludes Members of Congress from further retirement coverage under the Civil Service Retirement System or the Federal Employees Retirement System following the enactment of the bill. It also prohibits further government contributions or deductions from a Member's basic pay for deposit in the Treasury to the credit of the Civil Service Retirement and Disability Fund.This exclusion does not affect a Member's eligibility to participate in the Thrift Savings Plan.
Latest Action
Referred to the Committee on House Administration, and in addition to the Committee on Oversight and Government Reform, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.