SEA Applauds Fix for Paid Administrative Leave in NDAA

Written by SEA. Posted in Latest News

(Washington, DC) – In response to the passage of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which included a provision to codify paid administrative leave and limit its broad use and potential for abuse, Bill Valdez, President of the Senior Executives Association (SEA), issued the following statement:

“SEA has long been a champion of reform for paid administrative leave, actively engaging with lawmakers to aid in crafting the provision included in the NDAA, and we are pleased that the fruits of that engagement have resulted in the creation of a fair and thoughtful resolution.  This is the type of constructive and bipartisan reform that improves the functioning of our government and provides assurances to the American taxpayer that Congress and senior career executives are serious about improving the business of government.

“We would especially like to thank Senators Tester and Grassley, and their diligent staff who have taken the time to understand this issue, and to the other members from both chambers who have supported and voted for reform.

“This is a victory for good government. The misuse of extended administrative leave has a significant impact on the efficiency and effectiveness of departments and agencies, in addition to its infringement on employees’ due process rights. This provision will curb that unnecessary waste of taxpayer resources so the government can continue to best provide its services for the American public.”

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The Senior Executives Association (SEA) is a professional association representing Senior Executive Service members and other career federal executives. Founded in 1980, SEA’s goals are: to improve the efficiency, effectiveness and productivity of the federal government; to advance the professionalism and advocate the interests of career federal executives; and to enhance public recognition of their contributions. The SEA Professional Development League (PDL) is a nonprofit educational organization committed to advancing the professionalism of career federal executives through the sponsorship of training, recognition, and research activities.