Planning and Conducting a RIF Course

Module 1: RIF Overview

• Introduction to the concept of RIF, including its triggers such as lack of work, shortage of funds, and reorganization.
• Learn the definitions of competitive areas and competitive levels, and understand how they determine who competes for retention in a RIF.
• Explore the different retention factors and how they influence retention standing: tenure, veterans' preference, service computation date, and performance.

Module 2: RIF Mechanics

• Learn about the competitive areas and levels, and how these are used to establish the order of employees who will be affected by RIF actions.
• Understand the roles of bumping and retreating in the RIF process, and how they allow employees to displace others in different positions based on seniority and qualifications.
• Explore the retention standing process, including how to rank employees in competitive levels and how to apply RIF actions (demotion, separation, furlough, etc.).

Module 3: Employee Benefits in RIF

• Understand the employee benefits that are affected by a RIF, including retirement benefits, severance pay, and health insurance continuation (FEHB).
• Learn the legal rights and protections available to employees during and after a RIF, including protections under USERRA and veteran’s preference rules.

Module 4: Transfer of Function

• Learn about the concept of transfer of function and how it applies in the context of RIF.
• Understand when a transfer of function occurs and the employee rights associated with these transitions, including placement rights and seniority considerations.

Module 5: Appeal Rights Under RIF

• Examine the appeal process available to employees who are affected by a RIF, including the steps they can take to challenge decisions made during the RIF process.
• Learn about the relevant case law and how it impacts RIF appeals, including how to cite and reference applicable legal decisions.