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Federal Circuit Requires Medical Evidence, Restores OPM Disability Benefits

5/21/2026

Summary

Story summary

In April 2026, Federal Circuit ruled agencies must consider medical evidence for disability claims, reversing a 2024 Merit Systems Protection Board decision that had allowed denial based solely on lack of evidence.
The ruling restored benefits for Tracey Garland, an Office of Personnel Management (OPM) employee denied despite a psychiatrist’s diagnosis.
Attorney Christopher Bonk said the precedent shifts the burden to OPM to prove ineligibility for workers with psychological disabilities.

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Story summary

In April 2026, Federal Circuit ruled agencies must consider medical evidence for disability claims, reversing a 2024 Merit Systems Protection Board decision that had allowed denial based solely on lack of evidence.
The ruling restored benefits for Tracey Garland, an Office of Personnel Management (OPM) employee denied despite a psychiatrist’s diagnosis.
Attorney Christopher Bonk said the precedent shifts the burden to OPM to prove ineligibility for workers with psychological disabilities.