Congresswoman Cherfilus-McCormick Introduces Compassion for Vulnerable and Struggling Workers Act

Washington, D.C. ─ Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (FL-20) introduced the Compassion for Vulnerable and Struggling Workers Act, which would ensure that fired federal workers continue to receive health coverage.

"Fired federal workers are navigating so much uncertainty right now, unsure of their futures and worried about what comes next. Their lives and families are at stake," said Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (D-FL). "I'm introducing this bill to protect federal employees who are facing serious challenges. Now more than ever, health care coverage should be the least of their worries."

This legislation would extend the Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) program to federal workers who have recently been fired and allow them to remain on the program. Coverage would be provided to federal workers who were fired without cause or were fired despite having a strong performance review. It would also ensure coverage for federal workers who are pregnant or have received a cancer diagnosis within the past 5 years.

The legislation would be funded using savings that have been identified by the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE).

"During a recent district work period, I held several town hall meetings where I listened to the stories of federal workers who are hurting. I met a woman who shared that she is three months pregnant and was fired unexpectedly. She and her husband are filled with fear and uncertainty about their future. In tears, she pleaded for her job back, expressing her passion for her work and fear for her high-risk pregnancy. We need to do better for federal workers like her and so many others," added Congresswoman Cherfilus-McCormick.

The full text of the bill can be found here.

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