Washington (CNN) President Donald Trump on Monday justified a smaller-than-anticipated proposed pay raise for civilian federal workers by citing "national emergency or serious economic conditions," despite his frequent statements that the nation's economy is booming.

Trump proposed that pay raises for civilian federal workers be limited to 1% in 2021 in a bid to "maintain efforts to put our Nation on a fiscally sustainable course." He described a pay increase above 1% as "inappropriate."

"This alternative pay plan decision will not materially affect our ability to attract and retain a well qualified Federal workforce," the President wrote.

An across-the-board 2.5% increase for federal workers is slated to take effect in January 2021.

In limiting federal pay raises, Trump cited his statutory authority to adjust pay because of "national emergency or serious economic conditions affecting the general welfare," but the President frequently touts a growing US economy, including a strong growth rate for the gross domestic product and low unemployment.

Read More