Who Pays for Veterans' Preference?

Abstract

The role of veterans `preference in the federal civil service has been both attacked and applauded. Yet little policy research has been conducted investigating the impact of preferential hiring on veterans, the merit system, or the employment of women and miniorities. This article uses data on employees within the General Schedule system to isolate the effects of veterans `preference from those of race, sex, education, federal experience, and age. The scope of veterans' preference and its impact on the merit system and the development of a representative bureaucracy are examined. The policy implications of this research are discussed in light of the 1978 Civil Service reform proposals.

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References

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