H.R.2086 - Rights for the Transportation Security Administration Workforce Act; Rights for the TSA Workforce Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R. 2086, the "Rights for the Transportation Security Administration Workforce Act," aims to enhance the security operations of the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and improve the stability of its workforce. It seeks to apply the personnel system under Title 5 of the United States Code to TSA employees. This would grant TSA employees similar rights and benefits as other federal employees.
The bill addresses restrictions on personnel authorities during a transition period, ensuring that existing systems remain in effect until a full conversion to Title 5 is completed. It also includes provisions for collective bargaining rights for screening agents and safeguards for grievances and appeals.
Furthermore, the bill mandates several reviews and reports, including those related to recruitment, implementation, promotion policies, leadership diversity, and harassment and assault policies. It also requires consultation with the exclusive representative for screening agents during the conversion process.
Expected Effects
The primary effect of this bill would be to transition TSA employees to the standard federal personnel system under Title 5, granting them enhanced rights and protections. This includes collective bargaining rights, improved grievance procedures, and potentially better benefits. The bill also aims to address concerns related to workforce morale, safety, and diversity within the TSA.
This transition would also lead to a standardization of HR practices within the TSA, aligning them with the rest of the federal government. This could lead to increased efficiency and transparency in personnel management. The required reviews and reports would provide oversight and accountability during and after the transition process.
Ultimately, the bill intends to improve the TSA workforce's stability and morale, which could translate to better security operations.
Potential Benefits
- Enhanced worker rights: TSA employees would gain the rights and protections afforded under Title 5 of the U.S. Code, including collective bargaining.
- Improved job security: Transitioning to Title 5 could provide greater job security for TSA employees.
- Fairer grievance procedures: The bill ensures that TSA employees have access to fair and consistent grievance and appeal processes.
- Increased workforce morale: By addressing concerns related to pay, benefits, and working conditions, the bill could improve morale among TSA employees.
- Greater transparency and accountability: The required reviews and reports would provide oversight of TSA operations and personnel management.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for increased costs: Transitioning TSA employees to Title 5 could result in increased personnel costs due to enhanced benefits and pay.
- Possible disruptions during transition: The transition process could lead to temporary disruptions in TSA operations.
- Complexity of implementation: Implementing the changes required by the bill could be complex and time-consuming.
- Risk of unintended consequences: Changes to personnel management systems could have unintended consequences on TSA operations.
- Potential for labor disputes: While promoting collective bargaining, the bill could also lead to increased labor disputes.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the Constitution by promoting the general welfare of government employees. By ensuring fair labor practices and protections for TSA workers, the bill supports the principle of a just and equitable society. There are no apparent conflicts with specific constitutional provisions. The bill does not infringe on individual liberties or rights as defined in the Bill of Rights.
The bill's provisions for collective bargaining could be seen as supporting the right to assembly and petition the government, as protected by the First Amendment. However, the bill also explicitly prohibits strikes, which is a permissible restriction on labor activity.
Overall, the bill's focus on improving the working conditions and rights of TSA employees is consistent with the Constitution's broad goals of promoting justice and the general welfare.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).