It disputes the Agency's assertion that the proposal would determine conditions of employment for nonunit employees, contending that the proposal would be limited to unit employees. The Union also disputes the Agency's assertion that a conflict exists between the proposal and applicable Government-wide regulations. The parties do not dispute that these authorities constitute Government-wide rules and regulations within the meaning of the Statute. Those provisions are generally applicable, with minor exceptions not relevant to this dispute, to employees in the executive branch of the Federal government. 5 CFR 351.202.
Agencies are responsible for following and applying the regulations.
5 CFR 351.204. Chapter 351 of the Federal Personnel Manual explains the system prescribed in the CFR, defining the components of the system and describing their use. Federal Personnel Manual, Chapter 351, Subchap. 1-1 and 5 CFR 351.205. The Authority agrees that the provisions of 5 CFR Part 351 and the implementing provisions of the Federal Personnel Manual are Government-wide rules and regulations.