Working for the federal government comes with more than just job duties and benefits—it also means you’re protected by a broad set of employment laws. Whether you’re a long-time employee or new to federal service, it’s important to understand what rights you have. From fair hiring to protection against retaliation, federal employees are covered under multiple laws that offer support and accountability. Here, we’ll look at the key protections available and what you can do if something goes wrong.
Civil Service Protections Under Federal Law
Federal employment is built on the principle of merit, not politics or favoritism. The Civil Service Reform Act (CSRA) helps ensure this by creating a framework for fair hiring, pay, and promotions. It also created agencies that enforce those standards and investigate wrongdoing.
These are the key players:
- Office of Personnel Management (OPM) – The government’s central HR agency.
- Office of Special Counsel (OSC) – An independent body that looks into violations of fair hiring practices and political activity restrictions.
- Merit Systems Protection Board (MSPB) – A quasi-judicial agency that hears cases and appeals involving employment issues.
The CSRA bans 14 specific behaviors known as Prohibited Personnel Practices (PPPs). These include actions like discrimination, retaliation against whistleblowers, or hiring based on political connections. If your agency engages in a PPP, you have the right to file a complaint and seek review.
Your Right to Fair Treatment and Non-Discrimination
Federal employees are covered by many of the same anti-discrimination laws that apply to private sector workers. These laws protect you from unfair treatment based on who you are, not just what you do.
Here’s a breakdown of the protections:
- Title VII of the Civil Rights Act – Covers race, color, religion, sex, and national origin
- Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA) – Protects workers over 40
- Rehabilitation Act – Applies to individuals with disabilities
- Equal Pay Act – Ensures equal pay for equal work
- Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act (GINA) – Bars bias based on genetic info
- Pregnant Workers Fairness Act (PWFA) – Provides accommodations for pregnancy-related conditions
- Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act (USERRA) – Protects servicemembers returning to civilian jobs
Discrimination or harassment, whether obvious or subtle, should never be tolerated. If you’re treated unfairly because of a protected trait, you can file a complaint and take steps to hold your employer accountable.
Political Activity and Whistleblower Protections
While working for the federal government, you give up certain freedoms around political activity. The Hatch Act limits what federal employees can do in terms of campaigning or using their roles to influence elections. But it also shields you from being pressured into political work.
If you report wrongdoing, you’re protected too. The Whistleblower Protection Act (WPA) and the Whistleblower Protection Enhancement Act (WPEA) make it illegal for agencies to retaliate against employees who report misconduct. This includes waste, fraud, abuse, and violations of laws or rules.
Even if the misconduct turns out not to be illegal, you’re still protected if you had a reasonable belief that something was wrong. And if you face retaliation, you may be able to bring an Individual Right of Action (IRA) directly to the MSPB.
Additional Rights That Support Your Career and Family
Your federal job also comes with rights that help you manage life’s challenges and opportunities. These include:
- Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA): Lets you take unpaid leave for serious health conditions or family needs.
- Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA): Provides a federal minimum wage and requires overtime pay for qualifying employees.
- Veterans Employment Opportunities Act (VEOA): Supports hiring and advancement for qualified veterans.
These protections are designed to make sure your job is manageable and your workplace is fair, especially during times of personal or family change.
What You Can Do if Your Rights Are Violated
If you believe your rights have been violated, you don’t have to stay silent. The first step is to document what happened. Save emails, take notes, and keep a timeline of events. Then, depending on the situation, you can:
- File a complaint with the Office of Special Counsel (OSC)
- Request a hearing before the Merit Systems Protection Board (MSPB)
- Reach out to a legal representative for help with appeals or lawsuits
We can help you evaluate your options, whether you’re facing discrimination, retaliation, or another workplace concern.
Know Your Options and Protect Your Federal Career
At Solomon Law Firm, PLLC, we work with federal employees to make sure their voices are heard. You’ve earned your place in public service, and you have the right to be treated fairly. If you’re dealing with a personnel issue, discrimination, or retaliation, reach out to us. We’ll review your case, explain your rights, and help you take action.