Extension of the Coronavirus COVID-19 Schedule A Hiring Authority

June 27, 2022 Memorandum for Heads of Executive Departments and Agencies From: Kiran A. Ahuja Director Subject: Extension of the Coronavirus COVID-19 Schedule A Hiring Authority

The U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM) is extending the use of the excepted service Schedule A Hiring Authority under 5 CFR 213.3102(i)(3) for hiring additional staff into positions needed in response to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic until March 1, 2023. OPM understands that during this time, agencies continue to need more tools to conduct strategic, targeted hiring for specific, short-term roles to meet mission and/or hiring needs. OPM has determined that the continued use of this special authority is justified, as agencies have on-going responsibilities directly related to the COVID-19 pandemic. Agencies may continue to use this authority to fill positions on a temporary basis for up to 1 year as needed in response to, or as a result of, COVID-19. These appointments may be extended up to 1 additional year. No new appointments may be made under this authority after March 1, 2023, or upon termination of the National Emergency Concerning the COVID-19 pandemic, whichever comes first. Appointments are limited to individuals needed in direct response to the effects of COVID-19. As a reminder, agencies must apply the provisions of 5 CFR part 302 and follow the procedures in 5 U.S.C. §3318(c) and 3319(c)(7) as described in the Delegated Examining Operations Handbook when using this authority. For more information on the use of this authority please visit the OPM Fact Sheet - COVID-19 Excepted Service Hiring Authority. Agency headquarters-level human resources offices may contact OPM at employ@opm.gov with additional questions or clarifications. Agency field offices should contact their appropriate headquarters-level agency human resources office. Individual employees should contact their agency human resources office. cc: Chief Human Capital Officers (CHCOs), Deputy CHCOs, and Human Resources Directors