Marcus Hill, Chair for the Board of Directors for the Senior Executives Association (SEA)–representing the interests of over 8,000 career federal executives in the Senior Executive Service (SES), Senior Level (SL), Scientific and Professional (ST) and equivalent positions and other senior career federal leaders, including our General Schedule members (GS 12-15)–released the following statement regarding the House of Representatives passage of H.R. 159, the Chance to Compete Act:
“As we are acutely aware, the federal government’s hiring policies and practices remain in desperate need of modernization to respond to current-day dynamics, challenges and expectations. Applying modern assessments, integrating subject matter experts, and using valid candidate certificates are important steps in reforming an archaic, federal hiring process. These reforms should save American taxpayers money by greater positioning agencies to attract, recruit and retain better talent. Ultimately the Chance to Compete Act will enhance fairness and foster federal employment opportunities for more Americans. SEA applauds the bipartisan leadership of Representatives Foxx, Connolly, Comer and Khanna and is pleased to see the House advancing this bill in its first month in session,” Hill said.
“As this legislation moves to the Senate, we desire to see it further fortified with minor amendments to expand qualification standards and improve information sharing of qualified candidates amongst the agencies. It is our sincere belief this legislation demonstrates modernizing the federal workforce improves service delivery for the American people. In addition and as important, it presents an opportunity for Congress to demonstrate bipartisan leadership and achieve an immediate win in the 118th Congress. A range of federal stakeholders have long acknowledged our government must work better and more efficiently using modern processes, stronger collaborations and improved accountability. Achieving these objectives begin with a greater focus on empowering employees serving within the agencies. Again, the Chance to Compete Act represents progress in the right direction. We look forward to supporting additional, responsible civil service modernization by this Congress,” Hill concluded.
