General Knowledge and Civil Service Flashcards

Which document establishes the supreme law of the United States?

Answer: The U.S. Constitution

The U.S. Constitution is the supreme law of the land, establishing the framework of the federal government and individual rights.

What does the term 'fiscal year' mean in the context of the U.S. federal government?

Answer: October 1 to September 30

The U.S. federal government's fiscal year runs from October 1 through September 30 of the following calendar year.

Which act prohibits federal employees from engaging in partisan political activities while on duty?

Answer: Hatch Act

The Hatch Act restricts certain political activities of federal, state, and local government employees to protect the integrity of public service.

What is an 'appropriation' in government budgeting?

Answer: Congressional authorization to spend money

An appropriation is a legislative act authorizing the executive branch to spend a specified amount of money for a designated purpose.

Which federal law protects government workers who report waste, fraud, or abuse?

Answer: Whistleblower Protection Act

The Whistleblower Protection Act shields federal employees from retaliation when they report illegal or wasteful government activities.

What is 'due process' in the context of civil service employment?

Answer: The right to fair procedures before adverse employment actions

Due process in civil service means employees have the right to notice and a fair hearing before significant adverse actions like termination.