White House proposing raise for federal workers

WASHINGTON (AP) — An Obama administration official says the White House is proposing a 0.5 percent raise for civilian federal employees in its 2013 budget.

If Congress approves the measure, it would mark the first pay increase for federal workers since the two-year freeze ordered President Barack Obama ordered in 2010.

Republican lawmakers have suggested extending the freeze for federal workers as one way to pay for a full-year extension of payroll tax cuts. A short-term, two-month extension is due to expire at the end of February.

The official says the White House notified agencies of the proposal Friday morning. The official spoke on the condition of anonymity because a formal announcement has not been made.

The White House proposal was first reported by The Washington Post.