Merit-Based Hiring Returns: DEI Out, Patriotism In for Feds
Published Date: 1/30/2025
Presidential Document
Summary
The government is fixing its hiring process to bring in skilled Americans who love our country and follow the Constitution. This means no more hiring based on race, sex, or beliefs unrelated to job skills. Agencies have 120 days to create a new plan that makes hiring faster, fairer, and focused on talent, helping build a stronger federal workforce without wasting taxpayer money.
Analyzed Economic Effects
6 provisions identified: 4 benefits, 1 costs, 1 mixed.
Faster Federal Hiring Timeline
The order directs a government-wide goal to reduce time-to-hire to under 80 days. Agencies are required to adopt plans (developed within 120 days of the order) that shorten hiring timelines and improve candidate communication, including regular updates on application status.
New Skill Assessments in Hiring
The order requires agencies to implement technical and alternative assessments to the greatest extent possible as required by the Chance to Compete Act of 2024, shifting selection toward practical skill evaluations.
Reallocation of Senior Executive Service Positions
The Federal Hiring Plan must include specific agency plans to improve allocation of Senior Executive Service positions in named agencies (Cabinet agencies, EPA, OMB, SBA, SSA, NSF, OPM, GSA) to 'best facilitate democratic leadership.'
Ban on Hiring Based on Race, Sex, Religion
The order requires that Federal hiring prevent making hiring decisions based on an applicant's race, sex, or religion. It states hiring should not be based on impermissible factors such as commitments framed as 'equity' or the concept of 'gender identity' over sex.
Constitutional Commitment as Hiring Criterion
The order directs prioritizing recruitment of individuals committed to upholding the Constitution and preventing hiring of individuals who are unwilling to defend the Constitution or faithfully serve the Executive Branch.
Modern Tech and Candidate Communication
Agencies must integrate modern technology, data analytics, and digital platforms to improve recruitment and candidate engagement, and provide clearer updates and feedback on applications.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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