1. United States
2. Calif.
3. Letter

I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposed $50 billion in cuts to federal retirement and health benefits outlined in the budget resolution H.Con.Res.14. These cuts threaten the financial security and well-being of dedicated public servants who have committed their careers to serving our nation. Specifically, proposals such as shifting the Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) program to a voucher system, increasing Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) contributions without additional benefits, eliminating FERS annuity supplements, and altering annuity calculations from a high-3 to a high-5 salary average would significantly reduce the value of earned benefits. These changes would effectively lower take-home pay and retirement income, undermining the government’s ability to attract and retain skilled employees. At a time when the federal workforce is already facing challenges, including reductions in force and threats to the merit-based civil service system, further cuts to benefits would exacerbate these issues and diminish the appeal of public service. I urge you to oppose any legislation that includes cuts to earned federal retirement and health benefits. Protecting these benefits is essential to honoring the commitments made to federal employees and ensuring the continued effectiveness of our government.