Defense Department's Union Rules Challenged

In addition, the three urged support for a provision that would place NSPS-covered employees under regular civil service procedures for their annual job performance appraisals. Pentagon officials said they are concerned this change could undermine their effort to link pay raises to job ratings given under the NSPS.

The House and Senate have approved bills that differ on how to modify the NSPS, which leaves the matter to negotiators to settle. The White House has strongly objected to the NSPS changes, saying that adoption of the House version, which calls for a broader repeal of the NSPS, would trigger a veto.

Call Center for Student Loan Forgiveness

Public service employees seeking information about a new student loan forgiveness law can obtain information by contacting the Education Department's call center, 1-800-433-3243, officials said.

Callers to the automated system should select the option that permits them to speak directly to an operator or a call center representative.

The law, part of the College Cost Reduction and Access Act signed by President Bush on Sept. 27, forgives outstanding education debt for public service employees who have made 10 years of monthly payments on their loans while serving full-time in government, the military, public education or other positions related to public service.

The law took effect this month, making employees eligible for loan forgiveness in October 2017.

Stephen Barr's e-mail address isbarrs@washpost.com.