Employee Rights Against A Furlough

An employee against whom a furlough of 30 days or less is proposed is entitled to at least 30 days advance written notice; a reasonable time, but not less than 7 days, to answer orally or in writing or both and to furnish affidavits and other documentary evidence in support of the answer; representation by an attorney or other personal representative; a reasonable amount of official time to review the material relied on to support the proposed action, to prepare an answer, and to secure affidavits, if the employee requests time and is otherwise in an active duty status, however, if the employee is covered by a negotiated agreement (union contract), the provisions of that agreement must be followed; and written decision and the specific reason(s) for the decision at the earliest practicable date and before the effective date of the action.