S.Amdt. 5920

SA 5920, submitted by Mr. HUSTED, aims to add a section to bill S. 4784 regarding the appointment of highly qualified experts to the Bureau of Industry and Security.

The purpose of this amendment is to allow the Under Secretary of Commerce for Industry and Security to attract experts in needed occupations from outside the civil service to fill specific expertise gaps that have been difficult to fill.

Key Changes and Additions

• Hiring Authority: The Under Secretary may conduct annual studies to identify expertise gaps and appoint personnel from outside the civil service to fill those positions.
• Pay and Limits: The Under Secretary can set basic pay rates, though total annual compensation cannot exceed the maximum amount payable to the Vice President.
• Employment Constraints:
  • Appointments are generally limited to 5 years, with a possible one-year extension if necessary for national security or foreign policy.
  • No more than 25 employees can be appointed and retained under this authority at any one time.
• Accountability: The Under Secretary must submit reports to specific Senate and House committees every year. These reports must detail identified expertise gaps, steps taken to hire from within the civil service, the number and qualifications of outside hires, and the impact these hires have on the Bureau's mission.
• Regulations: This does not waive any requirements for background checks or applicant qualifications.
• Timeline: This authority expires 5 years after the act is enacted, though current employees can finish their appointment period without a pay reduction.