Can my BC refuse to sign my CSP packet for me to do Troops into transportation?

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 04 Oct 2023 18:57:04 -0400

I ETS on the 28th of this month, I was going through a hiring process and in the end didn’t get the job and now I’m trying to get my CDL and I start class next Monday but my Battalion Commander is refusing to sign my CSP packet because the class goes through my ETS date. Can she withhold home from an opportunity to get a job post military?

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 4 at 2023 9:40 PM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 04 Oct 2023 21:40:40 -0400

So there's two time periods here - 1) before your ETS while you're still in....and 2) after. Without additional information, it appears your BC is not signing paperwork for a program that begins while you are still in the Army and something that will not ultimately benefit the Army. It will take you away from duties during your last few weeks. Short answer - yes, she doesn't have to sign anything...but we need more context.

Response by COL Randall C. made Oct 4 at 2023 11:14 PM

COL Randall C. — Wed, 04 Oct 2023 23:14:17 -0400

Short answer: Yes. Approval for participation in a Career Skills Program (CSP) is up to the commander. Usually if you've crossed all the Ts and dotted all the Is, it's a routine approval, but it sounds like it was a fall-back option at the last minute. This is one reason that DoD harps on servicemembers to start TAP 18 months out from their separation date and if pursuing CSP to initiate it six months out.

One situation that will almost always get a CSP denied is if the completion date extends past your separation date. The guidance to commanders is that there must be sufficient time after completion of CSP to return to your permanent duty station to complete physical and administrative out-processing requirements, including unit--level and installation level out-processing and final out before a separation or retirement date.

There are situations where a commander will approve a packet, but these are usually in certain defined programs.
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* AR 600-82 - https://armypubs.army.mil/epubs/DR_pubs/DR_a/pdf/web/ARN19863_R600_81_ADMIN_FINAL.pdf
* MILPER 23-173 - https://home.army.mil/cavazos/application/files/7916/8496/0613/MILPER_23-173_Updated_Process_for_Transition_Assistance_Program_TAP.pdf

ARN19863_R600_81_ADMIN_FINAL.pdf