Wildland Firefighter Paycheck Protection Act of 2023

3/13/2024, 10:50 AM

Summary of Bill S 2272

Bill 118 s 2272, also known as the Wildland Firefighter Paycheck Protection Act of 2023, aims to provide financial support and protection for wildland firefighters who risk their lives to combat wildfires across the United States. The bill seeks to ensure that these brave individuals receive fair compensation for their dangerous work and are not left financially vulnerable during times of crisis.

Specifically, the Wildland Firefighter Paycheck Protection Act of 2023 includes provisions to increase the pay and benefits for wildland firefighters, including hazard pay and overtime compensation. The bill also addresses issues related to healthcare coverage, retirement benefits, and mental health support for these essential workers.

Additionally, the legislation aims to improve working conditions for wildland firefighters by establishing minimum standards for equipment, training, and safety protocols. This includes provisions for adequate rest periods, access to clean drinking water, and proper protective gear to reduce the risk of injury and illness on the job. Overall, the Wildland Firefighter Paycheck Protection Act of 2023 recognizes the critical role that wildland firefighters play in protecting communities and natural resources from the devastating impact of wildfires. By providing financial support and ensuring fair treatment for these dedicated individuals, the bill aims to improve the overall well-being and effectiveness of the wildland firefighting workforce in the United States.

Congressional Summary of S 2272

Wildland Firefighter Paycheck Protection Act of 2023

This bill establishes specialized pay for federal wildland firefighters.

Specifically, the bill provides for a specialized pay schedule for wildland firefighters in the Forest Service and the Department of the Interior. The specialized pay schedule is based on the General Schedule, increased by a specified percentage depending on the position grade (the higher the grade, the lower the percentage adjustment).

The bill also provides for specialized premium pay for wildland firefighters who respond to certain prolonged fire incidents (i.e., those that are not contained within 36 hours). It also provides for paid rest and recuperation leave in conjunction with such responses.

Current Status of Bill S 2272

Bill S 2272 is currently in the status of Bill Introduced since July 12, 2023. Bill S 2272 was introduced during Congress 118 and was introduced to the Senate on July 12, 2023.  Bill S 2272's most recent activity was Placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders. Calendar No. 205. as of September 11, 2023

Bipartisan Support of Bill S 2272

Total Number of Sponsors
2
Democrat Sponsors
0
Republican Sponsors
0
Unaffiliated Sponsors
2
Total Number of Cosponsors
14
Democrat Cosponsors
8
Republican Cosponsors
6
Unaffiliated Cosponsors
0

Policy Area and Potential Impact of Bill S 2272

Primary Policy Focus

Government Operations and Politics

Potential Impact Areas

Congressional oversightEmployee leaveFiresFirst responders and emergency personnelForests, forestry, treesGovernment employee pay, benefits, personnel managementGovernment information and archivesWages and earnings

Alternate Title(s) of Bill S 2272

Wildland Firefighter Paycheck Protection Act of 2023Wildland Firefighter Paycheck Protection Act of 2023Wildland Firefighter Paycheck Protection Act of 2023A bill to amend title 5, United States Code, to provide for special base rates of pay for wildland firefighters, and for other purposes.
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