The proposed bill establishes a new civil service system for the City of Helena, Shelby County, and creates a personnel board to oversee its implementation. Key provisions include the definitions of terms such as "appointing authority," "classified service," and "personnel board," as well as the structure of the board, which will consist of three members: one elected by city employees, one appointed by the mayor and city council, and one selected by the first two members. The board is responsible for adopting policies, hearing appeals related to disciplinary actions, and conducting regular meetings. The bill also provides for the appointment of a personnel director by the mayor, who will implement the board's policies and can be suspended or terminated for cause, with the right to appeal to the board. Notably, the bill repeals Act 92-201 from the 1992 Regular Session, replacing the old civil service framework with this new structure.

Additionally, the bill introduces amendments to the existing personnel management framework, including the establishment of a classification plan for city employees, a comprehensive pay plan to ensure fair compensation, and procedures for filling vacancies. It clarifies the roles of the city council, mayor, and director in adopting and amending the pay plan, while also emphasizing timely payroll certification and grievance handling. The bill outlines disciplinary procedures, including the appeals process for dismissals, demotions, or suspensions, and prohibits discrimination in employment based on various characteristics. The effective date for the new provisions is set for June 1, 2026, marking a significant modernization of the city's employment practices.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 11-43-3, 11-43-5