Attorneys for Federal Employees — Nationwide

Nearly 200,000 federal workers and supporters follow our updates across TikTok, Instagram, YouTube, Facebook, and LinkedIn. Each briefing gives you the three stories that actually matter to your job, plain‑English legal guidance, and one short practice to protect your peace of mind. If it helps you, forward it to a colleague—new readers can subscribe at https://fedlegalhelp.com/newsletter. 

Today at a Glance

• OPM RIF proposal: Performance ratings may matter more than seniority in layoffs—start building your paper trail now.
• “Schedule Policy/Career” lawsuit: Watch for reclassification notices and preserve your position records.
• OPM tax form delays: If your 1099-R is missing, don’t wait—verify settings and document your attempts.

Top Stories:

1. OPM Proposes New Layoff Rules Emphasizing Performance and Reducing Employee Protections

Source: Government Executive — March 4, 2026

TL;DR: OPM is proposing RIF (layoff) rule changes that could put more weight on recent performance ratings than seniority.

For federal employees, this means:

• If your agency does a RIF, your recent ratings may matter more than years of service.
• Now is the time to fix errors in your record and document results (before any notice arrives).
• This is a proposed rule, so there may be a public comment period once it is formally published.

Legal Insight:
RIFs are governed by Title 5 and OPM regulations, and agencies still must follow required steps. If performance becomes more important, your appraisal record becomes higher-stakes evidence. Save copies of your last three ratings, performance plans, awards, and any emails that show strong results. If you get a notice tied to a RIF (reassignment, downgrade, or separation), ask HR—in writing—for the basis and the deadlines to respond or appeal. Because deadlines can be short, consider talking with your union and a qualified federal employment attorney.

2. Lawsuit Contends “Schedule Policy/Career” Exceeds Presidential Authority

Source: Federal News Network — March 4, 2026

TL;DR: Unions and public service groups updated a lawsuit challenging steps tied to “Schedule Policy/Career” (similar to the revived “Schedule F” idea).

For federal employees, this means:

• If your job is labeled “policy-influencing,” your job protections and appeal options could be affected.
• Watch for classification/designation notices and save every version you receive.
• Do not assume this will move slowly—agencies may act while litigation continues.

Legal Insight:
Classification changes can affect due process and where you challenge an adverse action. Practical steps: request your position description (PD), any written designation rationale, and keep a clean copy of your SF-50, PD, and an org chart showing where you sit. If you are in a bargaining unit, check your union contract for notice-and-bargaining obligations and request information in writing. Track timelines, keep screenshots, and preserve emails. Because deadlines can be short, consider talking with your union and a qualified federal employment attorney.

3. Federal Retirees Face Delays Getting Tax Documents from OPM

Source: Federal News Network — March 2, 2026

TL;DR: Some retirees are not getting OPM tax forms on time and are having trouble accessing them online.

For federal employees, this means:

• If you’re retired (or helping a retired family member), you may need to verify OPM delivery settings now.
• Missing 1099-Rs can delay tax filing—build in extra time and document your efforts.
• If you’re close to retirement, consider setting up and testing account access before you separate.

Legal Insight:
Tax forms are part of your retirement record, and delays can create real deadline pressure. If you cannot access your 1099-R, keep a simple log: dates, screenshots, error messages, and who you contacted. When you request help, do it in writing when possible so you can show you acted promptly. If you think you may need a filing extension because a form is missing, confirm your tax steps with a qualified tax professional and keep proof of the delay. If your retirement timing overlaps with a work dispute, consider speaking with a qualified federal employment attorney.

Mindful Moment of the Day

Security Line Reset

If you badge into a federal building, the security line can feel like wasted time or a daily annoyance. Try turning it into a short mindfulness practice instead. As you wait, feel your feet on the floor, notice the air on your skin, and count five slow breaths while you inch forward. By the time you clear the checkpoint, your body is already more relaxed and ready for the day, instead of starting in a stress spike.