Tag: Intergovernmental Personnel Act

A Federal Intergovernmental Personnel Agreement (IPA) is a formal arrangement under the Intergovernmental Personnel Act of 1970 (codified at 5 U.S.C. §§ 3371–3376). These agreements allow the temporary assignment or exchange of personnel between federal agencies and other eligible organizations, including:State and local governmentsColleges and universitiesIndian tribal governmentsFederally funded research and development centers (FFRDCs)Other eligible non-profit organizationsPurposeThe main goal is to facilitate the transfer of expertise and improve cooperation between levels of government and related institutions. It’s often used for:Sharing technical or managerial expertise.Training and development opportunities.Joint projects or research initiatives.Temporary federal service without changing employment status.Legal Authority5 U.S.C. §§ 3371–3376 — Authorizes the program.5 CFR Part 334 — Implements the act through the Office of Personnel Management (OPM).Administered primarily through the U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM).How It Works1. An Agreement (IPA Mobility Agreement) is signed between a federal agency and an eligible non-federal organization.2. It specifies:The assignee (person being exchanged)The duration (usually up to 2 years, renewable to 4)Funding arrangements (who pays salary/benefits)Duties, supervision, and reporting structure3. The assignee remains an employee of their home organization but may work full-time or part-time for the host entity.ExamplesA state epidemiologist temporarily assigned to CDC during a public health emergency.A university professor detailed to NASA for a specific research collaboration.A federal law enforcement trainer working with a county sheriff’s department to develop joint protocols under an IPA.DocumentationThe key paperwork includes:SF-50 (for federal employees – personnel action form)IPA Agreement Form (template provided by OPM or agency HR)Statement of Work (SOW) and funding arrangement memorandumDistinction from Other AgreementsType Purpose Legal BasisIPA (Personnel) Temporary exchange of people 5 U.S.C. §§ 3371–3376IGA (Intergovernmental Service Agreement) Contract for services (e.g., detention, jail space, etc.) 31 U.S.C. § 1535 or § 6305MOA/MOU Memorandum of understanding for cooperation Agency-specificSo, an IPA = personnel exchange, while an IGA = payment for services.Key ReferencesOffice of Personnel Management (OPM) IPA Guidance: https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/hiring-information/intergovernmental-personnel-act/5 CFR Part 334: Electronic Code of Federal RegulationsTime to send FOIA Requests to OPM…