The public is probably vaguely aware that federal employees are well compensated. But we admit it was jarring to read just how generous that compensation is.
James Sherk of The Heritage Foundation think-tank cobbled together some of the incredible statistics on federal compensation — wages and benefits paid by American taxpayers whose private-sector jobs generally earn far less.
In fairness, there are many highly skilled employees in the federal work force. But even when the workers’ educational levels and special skills are taken into account, federal employees receive about 22 percent more than they would get in the private sector.
Here are some other eye-opening statistics:
* Federal workers can retire with full benefits as early as age 56.
* After only three years of service, they are entitled to four weeks of paid vacation per year, plus 10 paid federal holidays and 13 paid sick days.
* Including salary and benefits, federal worker compensation is 30 percent to 40 percent higher than what comparable private-sector workers get.
* It is difficult if not impossible to fire a federal employee for poor performance after he has put in a year of service.
* Federal pay raises are based largely on seniority, not good performance.
* Cutting federal compensation to private-sector levels would save taxpayers $47 billion in 2011. That comes to more than $400 per income tax filer.
Government workers deserve reasonable compensation, but federal government work should not be the “pot of gold” it has become for many.
This information doesn't include the over staffing and lack of efficiency in most operations or the various other perks. The government essentially never has a "lay off" for any reason, including a weak economy and lack of work. They never hesitate to add at the least sign of a possible need.
Why should legislatures be concerned. Voters don't care as indicated by the fact that over 95% have never written or called them to register a concern or voice an opinion on an issue.
I seriously doubt legilatures that have a fudiciary responsibility for our tax dollars have any idea just how many departments and employees the government has. They are too busy figuring out ways to extract more tax revenue and raising campaign funds to pay attention to frivilous government spending.
Which Party will address pay and pension reductions for Federal workers? Answer: neither.
Only an economic collapse and loss of credit standing would force reason into frderal compensation standards.
NC
True but there is broader application of your statement
Only an economic collapse and loss of credit standing would force reason into government.
Maybe
SM,
It looks like we might find out.
Our Honorable Senator Corker has been crossing the state canvassing for deficit reduction. If he's serious maybe he should start by cutting his and his staff's salaries- the example may just light the fire he's been hoping for.
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