Speech #930018733

Mr. Speaker. I am today introducing a bill to permit the early retirement of Customs and Immigration "inspectors" by including them within the definition of "law enforcement personnel" for retirement purposes. Under the provisions of this bill. final approval of "inspectors" requests for early retirement would be made by the Civil Service Commission. Under present statute. Customs and Immigration "inspectors" are not granted this preferential retirement treatment. because they are not considered to be involved primarily in the investigation or apprehension of individuals suspected of criminal activity. However. I believe the activities of the "inspectors" to be of such basic importance to their integrity and enforcement of our Customs and Immigration laws. that we must in fact statutorily acknowledge their "law enforcement" role. Mr. Speaker. I submit this bill for the careful consideration of the Members. I include the full text of the bill in the RECORD: H.R. 5558 To include inspectors of the Immigration and Naturalization Service or the Bureau of Customs within the provisions of section 8336(c) of title 5. United States Code. relating to the retirement of certain employees engaged in hazardous occupations. and for other purposes Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled. That (a) the first sentence of section 8336(c) of title 5. United States Code. is amended to read as follows: "(c) An employee. the duties of whose position are primarily(1) the investigation. apprehension. or detention of individuals suspected or convicted of offenses against the criminal laws of the United States. (2) to perform work as an inspector in the Immigration and Naturalization Service or in the Bureau of Customs. or (3) to perform work directly connected with the control and extinguishment of fires or the maintenance and use of firefighting apparatus and equipment. including an employe engaged in this activity who is transferred to a supervisory or administrative position. who is separated from the service after becoming 50 years of age and completing 20 years of service In the performance of these duties Is entitled to an annuity if the head of his agency recommends his retirement and the Civil Service Commission approves that recommendation.". (b) The third sentence of section 833b(c) of title 5. United States Code. is amended by redesignating the reference (1)". (2)". "(3)". and "(4)". as "(A)". "(B)". "(C)". and "(D) ". respectively.