Update on Buy Out Authority for FAS FSOs

The State Department has informed FAS management that they are unaware of any current authority that would allow for requesting and receiving approval for buyouts for the FS. Evidently there was a small window in the mid-1990's during the federal government downsizing that allowed for agencies to request buyout authority for FS employees, but it expired and is not contained in current public law. Historically, there has been a reluctance to include the FS in the public laws granting authority to request buyouts because of the FS being an up-or-out system with strict time-in-class provisions and a mandatory retirement age. In essence, it is thought that the FS system polices itself with management having the authority to reduce or eliminate promotion opportunities for each class.

Laura Scandurra
FAS AFSA VP
Date: September 30, 2004