Civil Service FAQ Key Civil Service Laws Questions and Answers 2

Question 1

Which federal law established the Office of Personnel Management (OPM)?

Accepted Answer

Civil Service Reform Act of 1978

Answer

The Civil Service Reform Act of 1978 abolished the Civil Service Commission and created OPM to manage federal human resources.

Question 2

What does the Hatch Act primarily restrict federal employees from doing?

Accepted Answer

Taking partisan political activity while on duty

Answer

The Hatch Act limits federal employees' participation in partisan political activities, especially while on duty or in uniform.

Question 3

Under the Civil Service Reform Act of 1978, which body hears federal employee appeals of adverse actions?

Accepted Answer

Merit Systems Protection Board

Answer

The Merit Systems Protection Board (MSPB) was created by the Civil Service Reform Act to adjudicate federal employee appeals.

Question 4

The Whistleblower Protection Act shields federal employees who disclose what type of information?

Accepted Answer

Evidence of waste, fraud, or abuse in government

Answer

The Whistleblower Protection Act protects federal employees who report government waste, fraud, abuse, or legal violations.

Question 5

Which principle, central to civil service law, requires that hiring and promotion be based on qualifications rather than political connections?

Accepted Answer

Merit principle

Answer

The merit principle mandates that civil service employment decisions be based on candidates' qualifications and performance, not patronage.

Civil Service FAQ Practice Test