Federal Employees Civil Relief Act
Summary
The Federal Employees Civil Relief Act aims to provide temporary financial protections for federal employees and contractors during government shutdowns or debt limit breaches. It suspends enforcement of certain civil liabilities, offering relief from evictions, foreclosures, student loan defaults, and other financial obligations. The bill also includes provisions for deferred income tax collection and insurance protection during covered periods.
Expected Effects
This act would temporarily shield federal workers from some financial repercussions of government shutdowns. It introduces measures to postpone or suspend various civil obligations. This includes rent, mortgage, student loans, and taxes, providing a safety net during periods of lapsed appropriations or debt limit crises.
Potential Benefits
- Provides financial stability to federal workers during shutdowns.
- Prevents evictions and foreclosures, ensuring housing security.
- Suspends student loan defaults and collections, protecting credit scores.
- Defers income tax collection, easing immediate financial burdens.
- Offers insurance protection, preventing policy lapses.
Potential Disadvantages
- May shift financial burdens to landlords, lenders, and other creditors.
- Could create administrative complexities for courts and government agencies.
- Potential for misuse or abuse of the relief measures.
- Temporary nature of the relief may only delay, not solve, underlying financial issues.
- The definition of 'Federal worker' including contractors could be subject to interpretation and potential disputes.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill's alignment with the Constitution is primarily rooted in Congress's power to provide for the general welfare (Article I, Section 8). By offering financial protections to federal employees during shutdowns, the bill can be argued to promote stability and prevent undue hardship. However, potential takings issues (Fifth Amendment) could arise if the relief measures unduly burden creditors without just compensation. The bill does not appear to infringe upon individual liberties outlined in the Bill of Rights.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).