Why are non-merit agencies forced to more strictly follow the law?

Both merit and non-merit agencies are required to follow the law. However, the law differs for merit versus non-merit agencies. Generally, there is an absolute employment preference for non-merit agencies. That means that if the veteran possess the qualifications, he or she must be hired. On the other hand, non-disabled veterans applying for positions in merit system agencies are only entitled to a 5 point increase in the rating score assigned by the Central Personnel Division. Disabled veterans applying to merit system are first entitled to the position, unless there is justifiable cause in writing for not doing so.  more