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Rule2026-17442

Critical Position Pay Authority

Primary source

Metadata and text below are from the Federal Register, a public-domain U.S. government work. Always verify the official published version before relying on it for any legal matter.

Published
August 26, 2026
Effective
August 26, 2026

Issuing agencies

Personnel Management Office

Abstract

The Office of Personnel Management (OPM) is amending its regulations governing the critical position pay (CPP) authority to establish level I of the Executive Schedule as the default maximum critical pay rate, with higher rates subject to written approval by the Director of OPM. The final rule eliminates non-statutory caps and approval criteria; addresses the use of service agreements; clarifies that reductions or terminations of CPP are not adverse actions or subject to grievance or appeal rights; and clarifies the treatment of critical pay rates as basic pay. This final rule simplifies and better aligns OPM's regulations with governing law and delegated authority.

Indexed from Federal Register on August 26, 2026.

This is legal information, not legal advice. Laws vary by jurisdiction and change frequently. Always verify current law with official sources and consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction for advice on your specific situation.