The outlook for our wage earners can be made still more promising by several legislative actions.

First, in the past five years we have had economic growth which will support an increase in the Federal minimum wage.  In the light of present economic conditions, I recommend its increase to ninety cents an hour.  I also recommend that many others, at present excluded, be given the protection of a minimum wage.

Second, I renew my recommendation of last year for amendment of the Labor Management Relations Act of 1947 to further the basic objectives of this statute.  I especially call to the attention of the Congress amendments dealing with the right of economic strikers to vote in representation elections and the need for equalizing the obligation under the Act to file disclaimers of Communist affiliation.

Third, the Administration will propose other important measures including occupational safety, workmen’s compensation for longshoremen and harbor workers, and the “Eight Hour Laws” applicable to Federal contractors.  Legislation will also be proposed respecting nonoccupational disability insurance and unemployment compensation in the District of Columbia.

In considering human needs, the Federal Government must take special responsibility for citizens in its direct employ.  On January 11 I shall propose a pay adjustment plan for civilian employees outside the Postal Field Service to correct inequities and increase individual pay rates.  I shall also recommend voluntary health insurance on a contributory basis for Federal employees and their dependents.  In keeping with the Group Life Insurance Act passed in the 83rd Congress, this protection should be provided on the group insurance principle and purchased from private facilities.  Also on January 11 I shall recommend a modern pay plan, including pay increases, for postal field employees.  As part of this program, and to carry forward our progress toward elimination of the large annual postal deficit.  I shall renew my request for an increase in postal rates.  Again I urge that in the future the fixing of rates be delegated to an impartial, independent body.

More adequate training programs to equip career employees of the government to render improved public service will be recommended, as will improvements in the laws affecting employees serving on foreign assignments.

Needed improvements in survivor, disability, and retirement benefits for Federal civilian and military personnel have been extensively considered by the Committee on Retirement Policy for Federal personnel.  The Committee’s proposals would strengthen and improve benefits for our career people in government, and I endorse their broad objectives.  Full contributory coverage under old-age and survivors’ insurance should be made available to all Federal personnel, just as in private industry.  For career military personnel, the protection of the old-age and survivors’