ExecutiveOrdersEO
MemoMemorandumObama · D

Presidential Memorandum

Federal Employee Pay Schedules and Rates That Are Set by Administrative Discretion

This memorandum extends through December 31, 2013, the existing freeze on federal employee pay increases that would otherwise result from administrative discretion, continuing policies established in 2010 and 2012. The action responds to congressional denial of statutory pay adjustments in the 2013 appropriations act.

Federal Register Open PDF 78 FR 21213

Impact dates

  1. OPM to issue necessary implementing guidance

  2. Pay freeze policy expires/ends unless extended

Key directives

  • Continue adherence to 2010 and 2012 memoranda pay freeze policies through December 31, 2013
  • Freeze general increases in pay schedules and rates of pay from administrative discretion

Who is ordered

Timeline

Immediate

  • Pay freeze policy continues for all affected federal employees

Near term (90d)

  • OPM to issue implementing guidance
  • Federal Register publication of memorandum

Long term

  • Pay freeze holds through December 31, 2013 pending further congressional action

Risks & tensions

  • Potential morale and retention effects on federal workforce from extended pay freeze
  • Uncertain whether Congress will address statutory adjustments in subsequent legislation
  • Vague timeline for OPM guidance issuance
Presidential Memorandum: Federal Employee Pay Schedules and Rates That Are Set by Administrative Discretion · Executive Orders