On Wednesday, May 2, the Civil Service Commission will consider a new rule establishing a structure and process for implementing temporary layoffs for non-exclusively represented employees. This proposed new rule is patterned after provisions for temporary layoffs found in collective bargaining agreements.

State departments have been asked to prepare contingency plans for operating government in the event that the budget crisis is not resolved and the state does not have enough cash to fully operate all departments and programs. The Governor is working with the Legislature to resolve this crisis immediately, but is also taking appropriate measures to plan if a comprehensive, responsible solution to the budget crisis is not reached.

Departments are still developing their contingency operating plans. No decisions regarding the implementation of any contingency plans have been finalized at this time. The Governor will be working with state departments, the Civil Service Commission and unions representing state classified employees should it become necessary to reduce programs or services in a way that impacts personnel.

The proposed rule does not mean that temporary layoffs will automatically occur.