Strengthening Probationary Periods in the Federal Service

What it means

Creates stricter probationary periods for federal employees by requiring agencies to affirmatively certify that new hires benefit the public interest before their appointments become permanent. Without certification, employment automatically terminates at the end of the probationary period.

Expected impact

• Likely reduction in the federal workforce as more probationary employees are screened out
• Increased authority for agency heads to determine which employees receive permanent status
• Potential improvement in federal workforce quality and efficiency through more rigorous evaluation
• Possible resistance from federal employee unions concerned about job security
• Greater accountability in federal hiring, with burden on probationary employees to demonstrate their value