U.S. Office of Special Counsel Honors Public Servants During Public Service Recognition Week

May 06, 2026

Washington, D.C. —  As Public Service Recognition Week (May 3–9, 2026) highlights the work of America’s federal workforce, the U.S. Office of Special Counsel (OSC) recognizes the countless civil servants who dedicate their careers to serving the American people with honesty, diligence, and a focus on results. While government is not immune to waste, inefficiency, or misconduct, the vast majority of public servants perform essential duties that deliver real value to taxpayers and strengthen the nation.

“Public service is a serious responsibility, and we are genuinely grateful for those federal employees who commit themselves every day to doing their jobs effectively and upholding the merit-based principles that make our government work for the people,” said Senior Counsel Charles Baldis. “These dedicated men and women deserve appreciation and our protection. OSC stands ready to defend them when they face retaliation for doing what is right.”

In Fiscal Year (FY) 2025, OSC responded to a record 9,820 new cases—a 57 percent increase over the prior year—as more employees sought the agency’s help. The agency’s FY 2025 Annual Report to Congress details these efforts, including strong results in resolving prohibited personnel practice complaints, handling whistleblower disclosures, enforcing the Hatch Act, and protecting service members’ rights under USERRA.

Building on that record, OSC released its Strategic Plan for Fiscal Years 2026–2030 in April. The plan sets three clear priorities: protecting and promoting the integrity and efficacy of the federal workplace; ensuring government accountability; and achieving organizational excellence. These goals directly support a more efficient, responsive federal government that roots out waste, fraud, and abuse while safeguarding the merit system.

Baldis noted, “Each case OSC handles represents the story of brave civil servants who uncover problems and help protect taxpayer dollars. Telling these stories promotes good government and reinforces why a fair, merit-based civil service matters.”

OSC remains committed to providing a safe channel for whistleblowers, enforcing the merit system, and ensuring federal employees can serve the public without fear of reprisal.