Civil Service
State Department’s top ranks need more career staff, senators say
Lawmakers look to promote a more merit-based system for top diplomats.
Bush-era national security officials warn against Schedule F
In a letter to congressional committee staff directors, a cadre of former Republican appointees urged lawmakers to pursue a “middle ground” of federal employee accountability that preserves merit systems principles.
AG vows prosecution amid ‘unprecedented’ spike in threats against career civil servants
The Justice Department has set up a task force to investigate "heinous threats of violence" against federal workers.
OPM reminds agencies of burrowing rules ahead of election season
All proposed appointments to career competitive service or Senior Executive Service positions must be reviewed by the federal government’s dedicated HR agency.
Governance experts launch a group to oppose Schedule F
The new organization hopes to offer a consensus way forward on civil service reform issues in addition to opposing efforts to politicize the federal workforce.
The Biden administration’s path to a green economy runs through Gen Z
COMMENTARY | The winning strategy? Engaging with young people where they are and paying them what they’re worth.
Agencies need to consider alternative personnel systems
A new model for government is still to be developed, but history and the current problems make it clear the GS system is not the answer.
Honesty is always the best policy, but it isn’t a silver bullet for security clearances
COMMENTARY | Candor isn’t helping the growing number of security clearance holders and applicants with drug use issues.
How transforming federal workforce culture can enhance safety and productivity
COMMENTARY | It takes more than annual check-the-box training and motivational posters to bring about change.
MSPB political firing case raises new questions on Schedule F
The Housing and Urban Development Department’s 2017 firing of a probationary employee over alleged leaks was politically motivated, the agency tasked with enforcing civil service laws said last week.
Politicians may rail against the ‘deep state,’ but research shows federal workers are effective and committed, not subversive
COMMENTARY | "Our years of research about the people who work in the federal government finds that they care deeply about their work, aiding the public and pursuing the stability and integrity of government," write two scholars.
Featured eBooks
