Foreign Service workers gain per diem during mandatory leave
H.R. 10095 — To amend the Foreign Service Act of 1980 to provide per diem eligibility for required leave of members of the Foreign Service. · Filed by William Keating (D-MA) · 4 cosponsors · Introduced Aug 13, 2026 · Referred to committee
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What it does
This bill amends the Foreign Service Act to require that Foreign Service members ordered to take mandatory leave receive per diem (daily allowances), lodging, and related travel benefits during that leave, including federal per diem rates. Currently, such benefits may not be provided during required leave; this bill mandates they be paid.
Why we flagged it
The bill is a narrow, technical amendment to clarify and expand per diem eligibility for a specific federal workforce (Foreign Service members) during mandatory leave. It is routine legislative housekeeping with a modest employee-benefit outcome.
What the text implies
- The bill does not specify funding source or appropriation; implementation depends on existing State Department budget authority to pay per diem during leave periods.
- The phrase 'ordered to take leave' may create ambiguity about voluntary vs. mandatory leave; interpretation will likely rest on State Department policy and prior practice under § 903.
The full analysis lists 3 implications of this text.
Who it affects
Foreign Service members (U.S. government employees serving abroad) gain concrete financial protection during mandatory leave periods, ensuring they are not penalized economically when ordered to take leave.