Congress Approves Bill Barring Most Forced Retirement
Congress gave final approval today to landmark civil rights legislation for elderly Americans that would prohibit, with few exceptions, mandatory retirement based on age.
President Reagan, 75, the oldest President in U.S. history, is expected to sign the measure sponsored by Rep. Claude Pepper (D-Fla.), who at 86 is the oldest member of Congress. It is to take effect Jan. 1, 1987.
On a voice vote, the House passed the bill just hours after it was amended by the Senate to exempt for seven years college professors, state and local policemen, firefighters and prison guards.
Under existing law, employers can require workers to retire at age 70.
“Abolishing age discrimination will offer new hope to older workers who are desperate to maintain their independence and dignity,” Pepper said.
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