Creating Schedule G In The Excepted Service
Summary
This executive order establishes Schedule G within the Excepted Service of the federal government. It allows for the appointment of individuals to noncareer positions of a policy-making or policy-advocating character that are normally subject to change during a presidential transition. This new schedule aims to fill a gap in the existing excepted service schedules.
Expected Effects
The order will create a new category of positions (Schedule G) that are exempt from competitive service requirements. These positions will be filled by individuals whose roles involve policy-making or advocacy and are expected to turn over with a new administration. The Department of Veterans Affairs is specifically mentioned as a target for improved operations through this order.
Potential Benefits
- Streamlines the appointment process for key policy positions.
- Allows the President to quickly fill policy-making roles with individuals who align with their agenda.
- Potentially improves government efficiency by ensuring policy positions are filled by individuals who are suitable exponents of the President's policies.
- May lead to more effective implementation of the President's agenda.
- Could improve operations within the Department of Veterans Affairs.
Potential Disadvantages
- May lead to political patronage and cronyism in hiring.
- Could undermine the merit-based civil service system.
- Increases the potential for political influence in government decision-making.
- May reduce job security for career civil servants.
- Could lead to a lack of continuity and expertise in policy-making roles.
Constitutional Alignment
The order cites the President's authority under the Constitution and 5 U.S.C. §§ 3301, 3302, and 7511. Article II of the Constitution vests executive power in the President, which can be argued to include the power to organize the executive branch. However, Congress has the power to regulate the civil service, so the extent of the President's power in this area is subject to debate.
The order's focus on policy-making and advocacy raises concerns about potential violations of the First Amendment if political affiliation is unduly considered. The order states that political affiliation or activity should not be taken into account, but the emphasis on appointees being suitable exponents of the President's policies could lead to de facto political screening.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).