Federal Managers Association

In the News

• If OPM’s Proposed RIF Rules Become Final: What Federal Employees Should Do Now - May 18, 2026

• FEDweek

  Federal employees who have been watching the government’s renewed focus on reductions in force (RIFs) should pay close attention to one development in particular: proposed changes that could make performance ratings far more important in determining who stays and who goes.

  The rules are not final yet. But if they take effect, many employees may find that their last several performance appraisals carry more weight than they expected. That means the time to review your record is now, not after a RIF notice arrives.

  This article is not legal advice for any individual employee. But it outlines practical steps federal employees can take now to protect their retention standing, preserve appeal rights, and avoid being caught flat-footed if performance ratings become central to future RIF decisions.

  To read the full article, click here.

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