(a) This section describes the transitional provisions that apply when DHS positions and employees are converted to a classification system established under this subpart. Affected positions and employees may convert from the GS system, a prevailing rate system, the SL/ST system, or the SES system, as provided in §9701.202. For the purpose of this section, the terms “convert,” “converted,” “converting,” and “conversion” refer to positions and employees that become covered by the classification system as a result of a coverage determination made under §9701.102(b) and exclude employees who are reassigned or transferred from a noncovered position to a position already covered by the DHS system.

(b) DHS will issue implementing directives prescribing policies and procedures for converting the GS or prevailing rate grade of a position to a band and for converting SL/ST and SES positions to a band upon initial implementation of the DHS classification system. Such procedures must include provisions for converting an employee who is retaining a grade under 5 U.S.C. chapter 53, subchapter VI, immediately prior to conversion. As provided in §9701.373, DHS must convert employees to the system without a reduction in their rate of pay (including basic pay and any applicable locality payment under 5 U.S.C. 5304, special rate under 5 U.S.C. 5305, locality rate supplement under §9701.332, or special rate supplement under §9701.333).