(a) An agency may take an adverse action, including a performance-based adverse action, under this subpart only such cause as will promote the efficiency of the service.

(b) An agency may not take an adverse action against an employee on the basis of any reason prohibited by 5 U.S.C. 2302.

[45 FR 46778, July 11, 1980, as amended at 53 FR 21623, June 9, 1988]