A Return to “Schedule F”? What Every Policy-Facing Fed Needs to Know

If your federal job involves influencing policy—through writing, advising, or analyzing—you could be on the verge of losing your civil service protections. A newly proposed rule by the Office of Personnel Management (OPM), quietly advancing under the name Schedule Policy/Career, threatens to reclassify tens of thousands of positions as at-will.

That means no notice, no MSPB appeal, no priority placement. Just a badge—without the shield.

Who’s in the Bullseye?

The rule targets positions with influence on agency decision-making. While OPM says only about 50,000 roles could be affected, their language is so vague that the impact could be much broader. If you're a GS-9 or higher writing briefing memos, analyzing policy data, helping draft regulations, managing HR or budget decisions—or even providing legal advice—your job may fall under the new definition.

Social Security has reportedly begun mapping entire offices for reclassification. HHS recently rescinded hundreds of RIF notices—only to issue new ones. The result? Whiplash. And growing distrust.

What’s at Stake

Jobs reclassified into this “Schedule Policy” track would leave the competitive service and enter the excepted service. That means:

• You could be terminated without cause.

• Due process rights evaporate overnight.

• The merit system—your legal shield since 1883—goes with it.

This isn’t just a bureaucratic reshuffle. It’s a direct threat to nonpartisan expertise. And when that disappears, so do the quiet protections the public counts on: food safety, flight regulation, veterans’ care, data integrity.

How to Speak Up Before May 23

The window to respond is narrow. Public comments close May 23, 2025. Even a short submission—just 10 sentences—can help shape the record. To make the process easier, we’ve put together a simple guide to help you find the rule and submit a comment: 👉 fedlegalhelp.com/comment

If you’re unsure what to say, our guide includes suggested themes rooted in merit principles, good governance, and nonpartisan integrity.

Mindful Advocacy in Uncertain Times

We know this is unnerving. We know the rule is vague. That’s part of the problem. But you don’t have to meet it with panic. You can meet it with presence. Awareness. Courage. If you've ever wondered when your voice matters—this is one of those moments. And you’re not alone.

We’re tracking every development inside our Power Hub membership, where members can access up-to-date guidance and join our Q&A sessions.

Legal Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. While I am a federal employment attorney, this post does not create an attorney-client relationship. Every situation is unique, and legal outcomes depend on specific facts and circumstances.