Relocation Expenses

An individual was given a manpower shortage appointment to a Navy civilian position which required him to relocate. His travel orders authorized a per diem allowance for him, a mileage allowance for travel by his private automobile, the movement of his household goods, delayed dependent travel, and the movement of a second car in case of delayed dependent travel. The appointee was unable to purchase a new residence at his first duty station due to his inability to find a buyer for his home. Since his appointment, the appointee has maintained a temporary residence at his duty station with his three dependents remaining at home. He indicated that his savings had been depleted by frequent trips home, coupled with the illness of a dependent child. He had been granted an extension of the relocation period from 1 year to 2 years. He then sought to have the reimbursement broadened to that which he would have received in a permanent change of station (PCS) relocation. Reimbursement under PCS would include temporary subsistence reimbursement and assistance in the purchase and sale of real estate. Under applicable statutes, new appointees to manpower shortage positions may receive transportation, the movement of household effects, and a per diem allowance for themselves. Implementing regulations for manpower shortage category appointees are set forth in the Federal Travel Regulations, which prohibit the reimbursement of residence sale and purchase expenses, subsistence while occupying temporary quarters, and miscellaneous expense allowances for such appointees. Accordingly, there is no authority under which the appointee is entitled to additional reimbursement of expenses.