Protect Our Probationary Employees Act
The Protect Our Probationary Employees Act would allow federal employees who are involuntarily separated while serving a probationary or trial period to resume that probationary period if they are later reinstated. When reinstated, the new probationary period would run for the remaining time needed to complete the original probation, accounting for any time already served in the prior position, with a cap so the remaining period does not exceed what would have applied originally. The act applies to separations occurring between January 20, 2025 and January 20, 2029 and would sunset (end) on January 20, 2029. It also defines several terms (such as “covered probationary employee” and “covered appointment”) and overrides other laws as necessary to implement this rule. In essence, the bill aims to preserve some portion of a previously served probationary period for employees who are involuntarily separated, so that upon reinstatement they do not have to start a new, full probationary period from scratch.
Key Points
- 1Trigger and scope: Applies to federal employees who are involuntarily separated during a probationary or trial period between January 20, 2025 and January 20, 2029.
- 2Reinstatement with a resumed probation: Upon reinstatement to a position in the former employing agency (to be as similar as practicable to the prior role), the probationary period restarts but for the remaining portion needed to complete the original probation.
- 3Calculation of remaining probation: The new probation length equals the difference between the originally applicable probation period and the portion already served, limited so it cannot exceed the original duration.
- 4Definitions and mechanics: Establishes terms such as “covered probationary employee,” “covered appointment,” and “former employing agency” to implement how and where this applies.
- 5Sunset provision: The Act terminates on January 20, 2029, making the policy temporary (not permanent law).