MSPB Explains New Vet Appeal Procedures

The Merit Systems Protection Board has published final rules to carry out the new appeal rights granted under the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act of 1994 and the Veterans Employment Opportunities Act of 1998. The former permits a person covered by the act to appeal to the board if a federal agency employer or the Office of Personnel Management fails or refuses to provide an employment or reemployment right or benefit to which the person is entitled. The latter law permits a person entitled to veterans’ preference to appeal to the board if an agency violates the person’s rights under any statute or regulation relating to veterans’ preference. The rules, published in the August 16 Federal Register, spell out the procedures to be used when filing appeals under those laws.