File Code: 6130       Date: October 5, 2001
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Subject: Maximum Entry Age for Firefighters
To: Regional Foresters, Station Directors, Area Director, IITF Director, WO Staff

This letter serves as notification that the maximum entry age for positions covered by firefighter retirement has been changed. On October 20, 2001 the Department of Agriculture (USDA) increased the maximum age for entry into covered firefighter positions from 35 to 37. Other aspects of the maximum entry age for firefighters entering primary positions are unchanged.

Key provisions are as follows:
· In order to meet the maximum entry age, individuals must not have reached their 37th birthday.
· Previous service in positions approved for firefighter or law enforcement retirement is subtracted from the individual's chronological age to determine his or her age for this purpose. Only include service that would be contained in the individual's retirement service computation date.
· Only primary (rigorous) positions have a maximum entry age, secondary (administrative/supervisory) positions do not.
· The maximum entry age for firefighter/law enforcement positions is applicable only when the individual is applying for a position covered by CSRS or FERS.
· The maximum entry age applies to each entry into a maximum-entry-age position unless the individual is transferring directly from another maximum-entry-age position.
· Vacancy announcements must include the new maximum entry age. We recommend covering the first two items above plus a statement that applicants are responsible for providing documentation of their past service in covered positions for this purpose.
Questions regarding this change may be directed to Helga Brown at (703) 605-0817.

/s/ Steve Nelson
STEVE NELSON
Director of Human Resources Management