After weeks of speculation, proposals and pushback, Congress approved the federal pay freeze Tuesday.
The freeze affects most federal employees, many of whom are now circling Dec. 31, 2012 on their calendars – the date the freeze, which holds pay for civilian employees at 2010 levels, expires.
President Barack Obama first proposed the freeze, which also required congressional approval, three weeks ago, setting into motion the pay battle.
Government employee unions vociferously opposed the plan.
But, Iin Congress, there was little agreement. Some lawmakers had argued for a less-severe one-year freeze instead. But, others said Obama’s proposal didn’t go far enough.
Congress granted approval for the freeze this week, tucking the provision into the continuing resolution, which funds the federal government through March 4, 2011.
Now, Federal News Radio reports the Office of Personnel Management is expected to issue guidelines in the coming weeks for how best to implement the pay stall.
