Federal Relocation Payment Improvement Act
- Bill Number
- H.R. 6330
- Origin Chamber
- House
- Congress
- 119th Congress, Session 1
- Policy Area
- Government Operations and Politics
- Status
- Introduced
- Latest Action
- 2025-12-02: Ordered to be Reported (Amended) by the Yeas and Nays: 37 - 6.
- Last Updated
- 2025-12-05T19:47:58Z
AI-Generated Summary
Purpose
The Federal Relocation Payment Improvement Act (H.R. 6330) aims to simplify the process of reimbursing federal employees for relocation expenses by authorizing agencies to provide a single, one-time lump-sum payment instead of itemized reimbursements. This is intended to support employees who must move for government-related reasons, making the process more efficient.
Key Provisions
- Lump-Sum Payment Authority: Agencies can approve and pay a one-time lump-sum amount to relocating employees in place of other relocation allowances outlined in existing federal law (title 5, United States Code, subchapter II of chapter 57). This requires authorization from the head of the agency (or their designee) and is disbursed through official channels.
- Regulatory Requirements: The Administrator of General Services must create rules covering:
- Circumstances under which agencies can use the lump-sum option versus traditional payments.
- Methods for calculating the lump-sum amount.
- Procedures for employees to challenge relocation expense decisions, including the right to appeal to the Civilian Board of Contract Appeals (an independent body that handles disputes over government contracts and payments) and references to its appeal processes.
- Technical Update: Adds a new section (5739a) to the U.S. Code and updates the table of contents accordingly.
Significant Changes to Existing Law
- Introduces a new option for lump-sum payments, which overrides other reimbursement methods in the same subchapter of federal law when authorized. Previously, relocation support was typically provided through detailed, expense-by-expense reimbursements (e.g., for travel, housing, or temporary lodging). This change adds flexibility but does not eliminate the existing system—agencies can choose based on circumstances.
Potential Impacts
- On Government Agencies: Could streamline administrative processes by reducing paperwork and multiple payments, potentially lowering costs and speeding up relocations. However, it requires new regulations, which might involve initial setup efforts.
- On Citizens (Federal Employees): Offers a simpler, faster way to receive relocation funds, reducing financial burdens during moves. Employees gain a clear path to dispute decisions, promoting fairness.
- On International Relations: No direct impact, as the bill focuses on domestic federal workforce management.
Main Stakeholders Affected
- Federal Employees: Primary beneficiaries, especially those required to relocate for job duties (e.g., in agencies like the Department of Defense or State).
- Federal Agencies: Responsible for implementing the program, including authorizations and calculations; affected agencies include those with frequent employee transfers.
- General Services Administration (GSA): Tasked with developing and overseeing regulations.
- Civilian Board of Contract Appeals: Will handle any disputes, increasing its workload slightly.
Notable Legal, Constitutional, or Political Implications
- Legal: Enhances administrative efficiency under title 5 of the U.S. Code without altering core employee rights; the appeal process ensures due process (fair treatment under the law) for disputes. No conflicts with broader federal compensation laws anticipated.
- Constitutional: Neutral; supports the government's authority to manage its workforce (Article I powers) without raising separation of powers or individual rights issues.
- Political: Could appeal to efforts to modernize federal operations and reduce bureaucracy, potentially aiding recruitment and retention in government service. As an introduced bill (referred to the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform), it reflects bipartisan interest in employee welfare but may face debate over fiscal impacts or implementation details.
This summary was generated by AI and may contain inaccuracies. Refer to the official source document for the authoritative text.
Sponsor
Recent Actions
- 2025-12-02: Ordered to be Reported (Amended) by the Yeas and Nays: 37 - 6.
- 2025-12-02: Committee Consideration and Mark-up Session Held
- 2025-12-01: Referred to the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform.
- 2025-12-01: Introduced in House
- 2025-12-01: Introduced in House
Bill Versions
- Federal Relocation Payment Improvement Act — issued 2025-12-01 — PDF (3 pages)