In October 2020, Executive Order 13957, known as Schedule F, was introduced with a planned implementation date of January 2021. This initiative sought to overhaul how certain federal employees are classified and managed. However, it was quickly repealed by Executive Order 14003 in January 2021.
Speculation remains that Schedule F could be reinstated under the current administration. Although its return faces legal and political hurdles, its implementation could bring significant changes for federal employees.
What Is Schedule F?
Schedule F proposes reclassifying specific civil service positions into a category called “excepted service.” This shift would provide the executive branch with greater authority to hire, dismiss, and manage employees in these roles, especially those involved in policymaking. It represents a departure from the traditional competitive service structure, where employment decisions are typically governed by merit-based rules.
What Could It Mean for Federal Employees?
Employees reclassified under Schedule F would lose key civil service protections, including safeguards against arbitrary dismissal, merit-based hiring requirements, and the ability to appeal personnel decisions. This reclassification would make it easier to remove employees from their roles, heightening concerns about job security and agency stability.
Key Concerns
The primary worry among federal employees is the potential threat to their job stability. If reinstated, Schedule F could lead to layoffs or the replacement of career civil servants with political appointees, potentially disrupting continuity within federal agencies. Positions most likely to be reclassified include those in policy development or senior administrative roles.
Possible Implications
Employees under Schedule F would forfeit the protections provided by the Civil Service Reform Act, including job security and due process rights for promotions and dismissals. This change would centralize authority within the executive branch, giving the president greater control over personnel decisions while bypassing the merit-based safeguards designed to protect the integrity of the federal workforce.
Preparing for Uncertainty
While Schedule F remains speculative, it’s wise to prepare for potential changes. Here are some steps to take:
- Evaluate your household budget and spending habits
- Build or strengthen your emergency savings
- Explore options for early, deferred, or postponed retirement
Although the future is uncertain, having a plan in place can help you weather unexpected developments. Consult an FRC® trained advisor to understand how your unique federal benefits could be affected. Together, you can craft a strategy to optimize your benefits and maintain financial security, no matter what changes lie ahead.
