Comment Number: 05-02582-EREG-103-d7391-c32132
Received: 3/3/2005 8:00:00 AM
Subject: Notice of Proposed Rulemaking, Request for Comment
Title: National Security Personnel System
CFR Citation: 5 CFR Chapter XCIX and Part 9901
No Attachments

Comments:

I am writing in concern about the National Security Personnel System (NSPS) Regulation Act implementation and what this non-benefit change does to our current and future federal retirement system for the average person.

This NSPS change is supposed to provide flexibility in hiring, firing, compensating civilian personnel. The Congressional Budget Office has once again released a series of budget-cutting options that in the federal employment realm mainly focus on the Federal Employees Health Benefits and retirement programs, which account for the lion's share of spending on federal employees outside of salaries.

There has always been some type of war, assistance, or aid with other countries. There is no explanation of how union rights might deter on the Pentagons's and governments mission in the past.

The NSPS eliminates any redress for decisions made on the basis of consideration other than merit. EEO and protection to employees is out, along with democracy. Our Nation is great, but this change deteriorates our greatness that our forefathers established. We set examples for others to follow. The implementation of NSPS needs to improve to correct and protect its workforce and lay a foundation that will protect and benefit all. The NSPS Act only protects management, what legal rights does an employee have against discrimination and EEO reprisals in the future?

I am certain this so-called "pay for performance" NSPS system is a deceptive label to reduce pay and moral. The government is giving less incentive for people to stay on. It is hard enough working multiple programs, doing the work of 2 people and now for all our efforts, we are paid with less benefits. This is not right!

What incentive is there to hire talented people? Our pays are not equal to private industry, but our benefits were ok. Lacking in benefits does not increase longevity of service. Reducing benefits such as cost of living, reduce contribution to TSP, cut base annuity, labor relations statutes and others retirement cost is morally wrong. Congress members only need to work a couple of years to earn retirement for life. The system needs to change for all federal employees, not just a selected few. This new NSPS system eliminates what little benefits we have.

For these reason, I oppose the implementation of NSPS and I urge you to act to instruct the Secretary of Defense to halt any further development of NSPS unless and until the Pentagon is willing to substantively address the issues raided by the United DoD Workers Colation.