To extend the break-in-service consideration for firefighter retirements, and other purposes.

This bill significantly amends the definition of "firefighter" under the Federal Employees' Retirement System (FERS) to broaden eligibility for specialized retirement benefits. It now includes employees in supervisory or administrative positions who previously performed duties directly connected with controlling and extinguishing non-wildland or wildland fires for at least three years. Crucially, for those transitioning from wildland firefighting, it allows for a total of up to 24 months in breaks in service without losing their firefighter designation. The legislation also establishes a process for individuals to receive retroactive credit for service performed between October 1, 2003, and the bill's enactment date. This applies to employees whose prior service did not meet the firefighter definition due to a break in service but would now qualify under the amended criteria, provided appropriate retirement deductions were made at the time. To obtain this credit, eligible individuals must submit a written election to their employing agency and remit any additional contributions that would have been deducted, plus applicable interest. The Office of Personnel Management is responsible for notifying individuals of their potential entitlement and assisting them in verifying their service for proper credit and annuity computation.