Extending probationary periods for federal employees and new hiring rules.
This Act extends the standard probationary period for new federal civil service employees from one year to two years. This change grants federal agencies more time to evaluate an employee's qualifications and suitability before their appointment becomes final. For citizens, this potentially means higher quality public services, as employees must prove their worth over a longer period, but it also increases job insecurity during the initial phase of employment in the administration.
Key points
The standard probationary period for most new federal employees (competitive service) is extended from 1 year to 2 years.
Veterans (preference eligible) retain a shorter, 1-year probationary period.
A 2-year 'trial period' is established for employees appointed to the excepted service.
Agencies must formally certify that the employee's continued employment after the probationary period advances the public interest; otherwise, the appointment terminates.
The minimum continuous employment required for full protection against adverse actions is extended from 1 year to 2 years for most new employees.
The changes take effect one year after enactment and apply to new employees hired after that date.
Introduced
Citizen Poll