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Adverse Action

A disciplinary action an agency takes against a federal employee, such as removal from job, suspension, reduction in job grade or pay, or furlough.

Title 5, United States Code

The section of U.S. law that outlines the organization and responsibilities of the federal government, including rules for federal employees and their employment.

Merit Systems Protection Board (MSPB)

An independent federal agency that protects federal merit systems and the rights of federal employees. Employees can appeal certain adverse actions to the MSPB for review.

Performance Improvement Plan (PIP)

A formal plan that a federal agency uses to give an employee an opportunity and specific guidance to improve their performance to an acceptable level before further disciplinary action is taken.

Preponderance of the Evidence

A legal standard of proof that means it is more likely than not (over a 50% chance) that the facts presented are true. It's the standard for the initial decision to take an adverse action.

Substantial Evidence

A legal standard of proof that means there is enough evidence for a reasonable person to conclude that something is true, but it is a lower bar than 'preponderance of the evidence.' It's the standard for agency review of an initial decision.