For decades, one of the most powerful assets you had as a federal employee was your seniority. The more years of service you accumulated, the more protection you had during a Reduction in Force (RIF) or similar workforce restructuring. However, these long-standing rules might be changing soon. The Office of Personnel Management (OPM) is currently in the process of updating their regulations, potentially shifting the focus from seniority to performance.
The Current RIF Rules: Seniority Rules All
Under the current system, your years of service are by far the most important factor in determining job security during a RIF. If you have many years of service, the odds of a RIF impacting you are very small. Additionally, if you are a veteran, you receive bonus points that further protect your position. When you combine extensive years of service with veteran status, the likelihood of losing your job in a RIF becomes exceptionally small. While performance is technically a factor under the current rules, it sits at the very bottom of the priority list.
The Proposed Changes: Performance First
OPM is proposing to flip this system on its head. Under the new rules, performance would become the primary factor in determining who stays and who goes during a RIF. This means that your recent performance evaluations and overall effectiveness in your role would matter more than how long you have been a federal employee.
How Veteran Status and Seniority Would Fit In
While performance would take the top spot, other factors would still play a role. Veteran status would continue to provide an advantage, though it would not be as heavily weighted as it is currently. Seniority—your years of service—would be moved to the very bottom of the list, serving primarily as a tiebreaker. If two employees have identical performance ratings and veteran status, their years of service would then be used to determine who retains their position.
What Happens Next?
These proposed changes have sparked debate, with strong opinions on both sides depending on where individuals stand on the importance of performance versus loyalty and experience. It is important to note that these rules are not yet official. OPM is currently in the public comment stage, gathering feedback from various stakeholders before making a final decision. We will continue to monitor this situation and provide updates as more information becomes available.