Nominations Update: Over 400 Positions Filled, Several Hundred to Go
President Biden has to fill roughly 4,000 politically appointed positions in the executive branch and independent agencies. Of these, roughly 1,200 require Senate confirmation.
The Role of the SES: A Necessary Bridge That Must Be Rebuilt
Leadership and morale are intrinsically linked. Ultimately, the first step forward in addressing team morale and agency performance must be to invest in and strengthen career leadership.
Defend Yourself & Your Agency Against Retaliation Claims
Federal agencies and managers across the Executive Branch may be surprised when the U.S. Office of Special Counsel (OSC) arrives to investigate a complaint of whistleblower reprisal or other alleged Prohibited Personnel Practices (PPP).
FMA Applauds Rep. Norton’s Leadership on Salary Compression
With the pay cap, the Federal Managers Association (FMA) is concerned about salary compression affecting an increasing number of feds—a very real issue that will only get worse if no action is taken.
Celebrating Hispanic Heritage
This Hispanic Heritage Month, FEDtalk is recognizing efforts to increase Hispanic/Latino representation in government and government efforts to elevate Hispanic/Latino stories to the public.
National Archives Issues Draft Customer Experience Agenda
The National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) issued a customer experience draft agenda last week for public comment to better understand what people and organizations need.
OPM Issues Directives Concerning Administrative Leave, Hiring & Work Flexibility in Crises
The Office of Personnel Management (OPM) set a few directives in motion last week, concerning COVID-19 administrative leave, flexibilities during emergency situations, and hiring authorities.
Workplace Wellness: Achieving Goals & Avoiding Burnout
Industry leaders share their perspective on how managers and early-career professionals can infuse more joy and wellness into the workplace, as well as their advice on how you to talk to your boss.
Senate Returns to Chambers to Consider NDAA Amendments
The Senate is back this week to debate on the 2023 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). The annual authorization bills not only set Pentagon policy but often becomes a vehicle for myriad other provisions.
Federal Circuit Deems Family Medical Opinion Unlawful in Removal Case
In Johnson v. Air Force, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit clarified that receiving external opinions on a proposed removal is a violation of the due process clause.
Congress Punts Government Funding to Lame Duck Session
Congress narrowly avoided a government shutdown by punting appropriations with the stopgap measure hours before funding expired. The continuing resolution (CR) expires on December 16.
FEHB Premiums to Rise 8.7% This Open Season
The Office of Personnel Management (OPM) recently released details concerning the upcoming open season and participants are likely to see a significant increase in their health premium costs.
MSPB Issues New Research Agenda, First Since Regaining a Quorum
The Merit Systems Protection Board (MSPB) has issued its first research agenda since reaching a quorum earlier this year. The agenda outlines research objectives for the years 2022 through 2026.
Bill to Prevent Schedule F Reclassification Clears House
Even without reclassification proposals such as Schedule F, federal employees face threats and liabilities inherent in their positions, including the possibility of civil lawsuits and administrative actions.
Celebrating National Hispanic Heritage Month
A monthlong celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month takes place from September 15th to October 15th, paying tribute to generations of Hispanic Americans who have contributed to the development of our nation. Here is a brief look at the diversity of the Hispanic and Latinx experience within the Department of the Interior.
Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead)
The weather is cooling down, the leaves are falling, and the holiday season is on the horizon. During this time of year, we celebrate holidays that compel us to take the time to appreciate our loved ones.
Developing Emotional Intelligence
While genetics, upbringing and environment all play a role, there are steps you can take to develop your emotional intelligence over time. This Emotional Intelligence Awareness Month, get to know yourself.
FMLA & OWCP Claims Aren't Protected Activity, MSPB Rules
A Department of Veterans Affairs employee was terminated for threatening agency employees after HR called the hospital to confirm the employee’s claim that he had not been released.