Court Cases
Supreme Court Reaffirms Where Federal Employees Can Appeal ‘Mixed Case’ Claims
The Supreme Court recently clarified how "mixed cases" will be handled in courts for federal employees.
MSPB
Stay informed on news and decisions from the Merit Systems Protection Board (MSPB), including federal employee appeals, adverse actions, disciplinary cases, and key rulings that shape federal employment law. Explore analysis of MSPB precedents, agency operations, back‑pay decisions, whistleblower protections, and policy changes affecting employee rights and due‑process procedures. Find clear explanations and timely updates to help federal employees, supervisors, and HR professionals understand how MSPB actions influence workplace rules and federal workforce accountability.
Court Cases
This Widow Does Not Meet the Legal Definition of ‘Widow’ for Federal Retirement Purposes
The widow of an FBI employee is ruled not eligible for a FERS annuity survivor’s benefit since the length of her marriage was less than 9 months at…
Court Cases
Supreme Court Decides Federal Employee ‘Mixed Case’ Court Jurisdiction Issue
Confronted with the question which court (Federal Circuit Court of Appeals or the U.S. District Court) is the proper forum for challenging a MSPB decision dismissing a federal…
Human Resources
Congress Passes VA Accountability Bill
The VA Accountability Bill has passed Congress. It will change human resources processes for taking action against agency employees.
Human Resources
Everything You Ever Wanted Know About the Merit Systems Protection Board
The author provides an overview of the MSPB, its mission, and how federal employees go about filing appeals.
Agency News
Does the VA Accountability Bill Get Rid of the MSPB?
Congress is considering legislation to allow the VA secretary greater leeway in removing employees for performance reasons. Secretary David Shulkin provided a response to a direct question asking…
Human Resources
Whistleblower Blows Whistle at Office of Special Counsel
A complaint has been filed and a hearing scheduled for a complaint against senior officials of the Office of Special Counsel, the agency that normally investigates and prosecutes…
Human Resources
Federal Employee Perceptions About Sexual Orientation Discrimination
The author says that MSPB's Merit Principles Survey provides insight into the perceptions of sexual orientation discrimination against LGBT federal employees.
Court Cases
Whistleblowing or Failure to Communicate Properly With Supervisors?
Here’s a situation where a federal employee received a “counseling memo” following what he apparently considered as a whistleblowing complaint to his agency chain of command. He tried…
Human Resources
What Federal Employees Need to Know About Furloughs and RIFs
What should federal employees know about furloughs and RIFs? The author provides the critical basics of each.