Legal Definitions - Office of Special Counsel

The Office of Special Counsel (OSC) is an independentfederal agency that investigates and litigates activities that are prohibited by civil-service laws, rules, and regulations. It was established by Reorganization Plan No. 2 of 1978.

The OSC is responsible for protecting federal employees and applicants from prohibited personnel practices, such as discrimination, retaliation, and nepotism. It also investigates violations of the Hatch Act, which limits the political activities of federal employees.

For example, if a federal employee is fired for reporting misconduct in their agency, they can file a complaint with the OSC. The OSC will investigate the complaint and, if warranted, take legal action to protect the employee's rights.

Another example is if a federal employee engages in political activity while on duty or in a government building. This would be a violation of the Hatch Act, and the OSC would investigate and take appropriate action.