Veterans' preference in federal hiring in its present form severely limits job opportunities for those who are not veterans. It particularly diminishes the employment chances of women, since they seldom have veteran status. Apportionment of hiring by state populations has no place in a modern merit system, since it has an adverse effect on equal employment opportunity and merit principles and has not achieved its purpose.

The question of whether, and to what extent, one congressional policy objective should take precedence over another is a matter for Congress to decide. Congress is urged to reconsider whether granting preference to veterans, in its present form, is appropriate in light of the contradiction to equal employment opportunity. If Congress wishes to lessen this conflict, modifications could be introduced which would diminish the adverse impact of veterans' preference. Suggested modifications include limitation on the application of preference to a one-time use and imposition of a time limit for use of veterans' preference.

Status Legend:

Review Pending-GAO has not yet assessed implementation status.

Open-Actions to satisfy the intent of the recommendation have not been taken or are being planned, or actions that partially satisfy the intent of the recommendation have been taken.

Closed-implemented-Actions that satisfy the intent of the recommendation have been taken.

Closed-not implemented-While the intent of the recommendation has not been satisfied, time or circumstances have rendered the recommendation invalid.

• Review Pending
• Open
• Closed - implemented
• Closed - not implemented

Matter for Congressional Consideration

Matter: Legislation which directs that appointments to competitive civil service positions in federal departments in Washington be apportioned among the states, territories, and the District of Columbia on the basis of population should be repealed.

Status: Closed

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