Trump Administration Finalizes Schedule F Return
The Trump Administration is finalizing the implementation of Schedule F, now known as Schedule Policy/Career. This regulation will strip a significant number of federal employees of their civil service protections. It aims to introduce a new job classification for “policy-related” positions within the government’s excepted service.
Key Details of Schedule F Implementation
The final rule for this policy is expected to be published in the Federal Register soon. The proposal was originally revealed last November. According to estimates, up to 50,000 federal employees may be affected when the policy takes effect on March 8.
- Schedule Policy/Career employees will lose removal protections under Title 5 of the U.S. Code.
- Affected positions will allow for at-will employment status.
- Employees will no longer be able to file whistleblower complaints with the U.S. Office of Special Counsel.
Agency Submissions and Executive Orders
Agencies have already made initial submissions regarding which jobs should transition to this new classification. This process will culminate in the issuance of a new executive order by President Trump.
Scott Kupor, the Director of the Office of Personnel Management (OPM), stated that hiring decisions will continue to be based on merit. However, critics argue that oversight will diminish significantly.
Criticism and Concerns
The introduction of Schedule Policy/Career has faced substantial backlash. A survey revealed that 94% of more than 40,000 comments submitted regarding the proposed rule opposed the policy. Critics, including the Partnership for Public Service, argue that this move resembles a reversion to a political spoils system.
- Max Stier, President and CEO of the Partnership for Public Service, called the action a regression in federal employment standards.
- Everett Kelley, from the American Federation of Government Employees, hinted at a court challenge against the new regulation.
- William Shackelford of the National Active and Retired Federal Employees Association labeled the measure a risk to democratic integrity.
Implications for Federal Employment
The new policy could lead to a federal workforce influenced largely by political loyalty rather than merit-based qualifications. Critics warn that this change might undermine the effectiveness of government operations. Concerns about increased political cronyism and potential misconduct have been highlighted by various labor organizations.
As implementation progresses, the full ramifications of the Schedule F return will unfold, prompting continuous scrutiny from employee advocacy groups and the federal workforce alike. Filmogaz.com will keep monitoring developments surrounding this significant shift in federal employee policy.
