To address Hurricane Katrina recovery efforts, you may have an immediate need to hire additional staff. Therefore, you are authorized to make excepted appointments under 5 CFR 213.3102(i)(3) to fill, on a temporary basis for up to 1 year, positions affected by or needed to deal with the devastation.

Earlier this summer, OPM sent you information on other human resources flexibilities you should consider when responding to severe weather emergencies and natural disasters, including, 30-day critical need and direct hire authorities. The Office of Personnel Management (OPM) memo is available at http://www.opm.gov/emergency/Katrina.asp.

You may also consider making appointments under the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act (P.L. 93-288, as amended) which allows you to hire temporary staff, experts, and consultants to provide disaster relief during emergencies declared by the President. Please consult with your legal staff for appropriate use and implementation guidance.

For additional assistance, please contact your assigned OPM Human Capital Officer.

cc: Chief Human Capital Officers

Directors of Human Resources