H.R. 2131, Fixing Internal Response to Misconduct Act

Floor Situation

On Wednesday, June 21, 2017, the House will consider H.R. 2131, Fixing Internal Response to Misconduct Act, under suspension of the rules.  H.R. 2131 was introduced on April 25, 2017, by Rep. Clay Higgins (R-LA) and was referred to the Committee on Homeland Security, which ordered the bill reported on May 3, 2017 by voice vote.

Summary

H.R. 2131 directs the Chief Human Capital Officer at the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to develop a department-wide policy on discipline and adverse actions. Additionally, the bill allows the Chief Human Capital Officer to develop new tables of offenses and penalties for its component agencies and requires the Officer to review any pre-existing tables. The bill also allows the Chief Human Capital Officer to establish working groups to improve employee relations within the Department.

Background

The Department of Homeland Security oversees several component agencies, including the United States Coast Guard, the Transportation Security Administration, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Federal Law Enforcement Training Center, U.S. Secret Service, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, and Federal Emergency Management Agency. This legislation requires a department-wide employee misconduct policy for all components of DHS.  

According to the bill’s sponsor, “It is imperative that the Department of Homeland Security be able to carry out its national security mission in an efficient and effective manner. Our bill is a step toward that goal. We’re increasing accountability and making DHS more responsive to the American people. The federal government should be small, efficient, and effective.”[1]

Cost

The Congressional Budget Office (CBO) estimates that implementing the bill would cost less than $500,000 annually and such spending would be subject to the availability of appropriated funds.

Staff Contact

For questions or further information please contact Dominique Yantko with the House Republican Policy Committee by email or at 3-1555.