FR 2025-06401

The Office of Personnel Management (OPM) has issued a notice inviting public comments on the reinstatement of an expired information collection request known as the Alternative Annuity Election, RI 20-80. This notice, published in the Federal Register, is a typical government request for feedback that aims to gather input from both the general public and federal agencies. The document sets a deadline of June 16, 2025, for comments to be submitted, either through the Federal Rulemaking Portal or by mail.

General Overview

This notice offers individuals, particularly those who are federal employees nearing retirement, the opportunity to give feedback on a form that affects their retirement payments. The form, RI 20-80, allows eligible individuals to choose between two retirement payment options: receiving a reduced annuity with a lump sum payment or receiving an unreduced annuity without a lump sum. The call for comments is part of a broader framework governed by the Paperwork Reduction Act, aiming to ensure that public agencies efficiently collect necessary information without imposing undue burdens.

Significant Issues and Concerns

Several issues arise when examining this notice:

• Lack of Detailed Burden Estimates: The notice provides only limited information on the estimated burden of the information collection. It states that 200 respondents will spend 20 minutes each on the form, resulting in 67 total burden hours. However, the assumptions and calculations underlying these numbers are not explained.

• Clarity and Accessibility: The document uses terms such as "Retirement Services" and "Retirement Operations" interchangeably, which may confuse readers unfamiliar with bureaucratic structures. Additionally, instructions for submitting comments lack detail, potentially discouraging those who are not familiar with the Federal Rulemaking Portal.

• Purpose and Benefits: The notice briefly mentions the alternative annuity options but does not elaborate on their potential benefits or why one might choose one option over another. More clarity on the advantages of each option could help individuals make informed decisions.

Impact on the Public and Stakeholders

For the general public, particularly federal employees nearing retirement, this notice and its associated form have several implications:

• The feedback process allows them to have a voice in the procedures that govern their retirement options. By participating in the comment process, these individuals can potentially influence how the OPM structures and administers the annuity options.

• On a broader level, the call for comments represents an effort by the government to enhance transparency and accountability in its processes, fostering public trust.

Specific stakeholders, such as financial advisors, retirement planners, and federal employees, may find both potential benefits and drawbacks in this notice:

• Positive Impact: Those advising on retirement can use the information and potential changes to better assist clients in making decisions aligned with their financial goals. It allows stakeholders to advocate for improvements or express concerns.

• Negative Impact: The bureaucratic language and lack of detailed guidance could deter engagement from those who might otherwise benefit from or contribute to the feedback process. Without clear communication, eligible individuals may struggle to understand the best option for their circumstances.

In conclusion, while the notice is a standard request for public input, its execution may still be refined to ensure greater clarity and accessibility. Enhanced communication can foster more meaningful participation, ultimately leading to better outcomes for all involved.