Comment Number: OL-10509734
Received: 3/15/2005 5:28:43 PM
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 disagree with the proposed NSPS, as written. The only point I agree with it is to easier hire and fire. The firing portion can be accomplished with the current system, it just takes time. The hiring side certainly needs help, that takes forever. There is no one in the entire Government would agree with being fired. Everyone will fight that. Although, I do feel there are folks in DoD that cannot be forced to work, are violent, and need counselling. I feel the following should be addressed and are the basis for my disagreement: **1** The lower level supervisors should not have this much power. Upper management (usually military) have no idea how their lower level superviors (usually civilian) work with their people or who really does the work in that branch. There are not enough checks and balances to keep the lower level superviors honest. **2** Workers should be able to document their supervisor in the same manner that the supervisor documents the workers. Both should have back-up documentation. **3** I must agree with all the other comments, that NSPS will bring back cronyism. The majority of the lower level supervisors are in that position because of cronyism. There is no other reason they are there. **4** Upper management should also be included in NSPS. **5** This system is the final straw as far as a morale buster. Many of the CSRS employees will be retiring in the next few year--or at least are eligible. The FERS employees look at working 45+ years before their retirement kicks in (social security) and we all know where that is headed. What's the point, may as well get out and come back as a contractor. **6** Experience and time in grade should still be taken into account. The main purpose of the civilian workforce was to cover when the military are deployed and provide continuity. This system will put an end to that. **7** NSPS seems to be a "rob Peter to pay Paul" system. If Paul is below a supervisor, he won't be paid. The funds just aren't there. I'm sure the thinking is "If you work hard, you should have nothing to worry about". Well, I have worked hard (like everyone else says) but still do not trust the system. BOTTOM LINE: This system seems to be a forced, top down system and way too vague. Seems many of the folks implementing do not remember where they came from or have never really worked in the trenches. Face it, there are many more people in DoD, watching their own back and will sacrafice anyone and everyone. NSPS promotes that behavior. I'm not sure how many personnel issues end up in the courts, but this will create havoc. There seems to be no other recourse. I think the current system should be retained, perhaps a few changes made to it, but it works when applied. THANKS FOR THE OPPORTUNITY TO COMMENT.