The U.S. Merit Systems Protection Board (MSPB) is an independent federal agency established in 1979. Its mission is to protect merit system principles in federal employment and ensure fair treatment for federal employees. MSPB operates as a quasi-judicial body that adjudicates appeals from federal employees facing disciplinary actions, such as suspensions or removals, and ensures that agencies justify their personnel decisions. MSPB investigates allegations of prohibited personnel practices, including discrimination and retaliation, and can order corrective actions when necessary. The agency provides guidance to federal employees about their rights and responsibilities and conducts research on merit system operations. It publishes user-friendly guides and reports to inform employees and the public about merit system principles and procedures. The primary customers of MSPB are federal employees within Executive Branch agencies, as well as federal agencies that benefit from MSPB's oversight in maintaining compliance with merit system laws.