Comment Number: OL-10508685
Received: 3/15/2005 10:01:44 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 have been employed by the federal government for the past 30 years, and have always been proud of that fact. I feel that I have made a contribution to my country, and have always done my utmost to support the soldier in the field. I have worked for what I consider both good and bad supervisors, who were, for the most part, fair in their assessment of workers and their performance. This fairness was partially dictated by the merit system, but for the most part, by the ethics of those involved in the process. Also, during my career I have endured several RIFs and downsizing exercises, but I am thankful that my time in service sustained me during those times and until NSPS, I would have recommended government employment over any other. However, NSPS, as I have read and understand it, is the first step in the destruction of a dedicated workforce. Pay scales, promotions, ratings, hiring, firing, etc., will be based on the good old boy system: who management likes, is related to, owes a favor to or who they fear could adversely affect their own career because of what that person could reveal about them. This is an unfair system. Additionally, NSPS will negate any rights the employees have to appeal. The government currently has checks and balances in every area. These checks and balances are crucial to fair treatment of employees. No one individual should ever be given an unreviewable authority for any purpose; this definitely includes the government. All humans make mistakes, bad judgements and decisions, and we all, including the Secretary of Defense, need to realize that we are simply that: humans. The only authority we should surrender to without question is God, no human being or a panel of 3 people who will, almost without fail, give the company line in any situation. The federal workforce is not the enemy. For the most part, we are all dedicated to our country, and give a full day's work for our pay check. We should not be considered security risks and every whim of those in power should not be allowed to ride on the coat tail of 9/11. The statement has been made that the federal government is losing the young, talented workforce because of an antiquated system that must be revamped. The system as it currently exists has flaws, but I disagree that NSPS is the cure for those flaws. I urge you to listen to federal workers, unions, and the general public in their arguments against this system. We can not allow one person to rule; we must have checks and balances in place to keep the U.S. Government for the people and by the people.