By the time the MSPB resolves pending cases, many employees will have found other jobs. Most people cannot afford to remain out of work while their claims go through the system. And most won't want to leave those new jobs to return to an employer who has spent the last year making their life hell.

Many federal employees accept lower pay relative to the private sector in exchange for stability, an opportunity to serve the public, and a degree of autonomy. As those incentives are reduced, there are fewer reasons to remain or join the civil service.

Ultimately, I think this is the right question. The government is losing credibility as an employer. The private sector cannot absorb all federal jobs but those with the greatest expertise and experience will have less difficulty finding jobs--especially in fields like health care.