Lawmakers push for improved federal supervisor training

The Federal Supervisor Training Act of 2010 (H.R. 5522) would require federal supervisors to receive initial training within one year of promotion, as well as once every three years thereafter.

Three House lawmakers have introduced legislation that would improve federal workforce management by establishing basic training standards.

The Federal Supervisor Training Act of 2010 (H.R. 5522) would require federal supervisors to receive initial training within one year of promotion, as well as once every three years thereafter. The bill is co-sponsored by Virginia Reps. Jim Moran (D), Gerry Connolly (D) and Frank Wolf (R).


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Training would cover basic supervision, mentorship, and prohibited personnel practices. The bill would require mentoring programs within departmental agencies to help new supervisors learn from more experienced managers.

“Proper training is critical to improving delivery of government services, reducing costs associated with mitigating employee grievances, and enhancing morale throughout the entire civil service,” Moran said.

The bill has the backing of the Federal Managers Association. FMA President Patricia Niehaus called the development of managerial skills “one of the greatest investments an agency can make, both in terms of productivity gains and the retention of valuable employees.”