Mr. President, as the government moves to protect its citizens, harden its borders, and defend American interests abroad, I want to make sure that the nation's federal employees are given the resources and support needed to carry out these missions.

Numerous studies point to the government's inability to compete with the private sector as one reason why we are unable to attract and retain qualified federal employees. With a few exceptions, since 1981, military and federal personnel have received equal pay increases. Yet, the Administration's FY03 budget calls for an across-the-board adjustment of only 2.6 percent, while the military would receive a 4.1 percent increase. The proposed 2.6 percent increase is less than the formula used by the Federal Employees Pay Comparability Act and fails to close the pay gap between federal and private sector workers.

In my capacity as Chairman of both the Senate Governmental Affairs Subcommittee on International Security, Proliferation, and Federal Services and the Senate Armed Services Subcommittee on Readiness and Management Support, I am actively involved in issues relating to federal employees. Our civilian workforce plays a significant role in the support our service members on active duty, in the reserves, and serving with the National Guard. I support a cohesive and coordinated effort in safeguarding America and believe a strong civilian workforce is crucial to our success in protecting our country.

By 2005, over half the federal workforce will be eligible to retire, and as long as fewer young people are choosing federal service to fill these gaps, there should be a commitment from the highest levels of government to ensure that agencies are adequately staffed with the right people and the right skills to run the government in an effective and efficient manner.

The American people know that the war on terrorism will be a long struggle; a different kind of war with fronts both at home and abroad. Our civilian federal workforce is on the front line of this war and must be prepared to respond to the possibility of attack. We should not distinguish between our civilian and military workforces, both of whom serve their country with equal dedication.