Ask the Lawyer received the following question (paraphrased for easier reading and clarity) from a reader on a legal matter that might be of interest to the entire audience. Q: Is DoD’s action to restrict certain employees from receiving a NSPS salary increase consistent with merit system principles? A: With the salary freeze, it is a tough time for all federal employees, particularly those in pay for performance systems. My understanding is that so long as you don’t lose pay the NSPS conversion is at the discretion of DoD. Bill Bransford is managing partner of Shaw, Bransford & Roth, PC.…