Purpose of an IPA

As we said before, these assignments are intended to facilitate cooperation between the Government and the non-Federal entity. The assignments allow civilian employees of Federal agencies to serve with eligible non-Federal organizations for a limited period without loss of employee rights and benefits.

The reverse is true as well. Employees of eligible non-Federal entities may serve in Federal agencies for limited periods as well.

Note: An IPA assignment may be done either through a detail or through appointment. EPA nearly always does an IPA assignment though a detail. An IPA detailee is subject to all Federal ethics laws and regulations. (See 5 U.S.C. 3374(c) for more details...here's a link). If you are "appointed" pursuant to an IPA assignment, then you should consult with OGC-Ethics for additional assistance.

The Bottom Line: Each assignment is made for the purpose of mutual concern and benefit to both the EPA and the non-Federal organization. They are NOT made to meet the personal interests of employees, to circumvent personnel ceilings, or to avoid unpleasant personnel decisions.