Rep. John Barrow Files Bill to Extend DoD Furlough Immunity

Rep. John Barrow, D-Ga., has proposed exempting all defense civilians from sequestration-induced furloughs, Government Executive reported Tuesday.

Eric Katz writes that at the Pentagon, only active-duty personnel are currently exempt.

The report said the lawmaker filed the bill on Monday, the first day of forced unpaid leaves for about 650,000 agency employees.

“My legislation keeps civilian employees on the job, and forces the DoD to find cuts elsewhere within their budget,” Barrow told Government Executive.

“It’s responsible, and it’s exactly the kind of solution the folks in the 12th District (of Georgia) want,” he added.