SB 487-FN is a bill that seeks to establish the Personnel Appeals Board (PAB) as an independent entity within New Hampshire, separate from the Department of Administrative Services. The bill sets forth the composition of the board, qualifications for membership, and the board's authority and responsibilities, which include hearing and deciding appeals on a variety of personnel matters, with some exceptions. It specifies operational details such as meeting requirements, quorum, staff hiring, and budget independence, and mandates that the board must issue final decisions on appeals within a specified timeframe. Additionally, the bill repeals six statutes related to the Department of Administrative Services Division, indicating a shift in the department's responsibilities, and outlines that the Department will continue to support the PAB until it is self-sufficient.

The bill also addresses procedures for employee classification reviews, appeals, and disciplinary actions, including terminations and demotions. It limits the PAB's authority in reclassification appeals to existing job titles and outlines the grounds for appeals in disciplinary cases. Furthermore, the bill includes provisions for reinstating employees found to have been discriminated against and prohibits state classified service employees from holding positions that create a substantial conflict of interest. Notably, the bill includes deletions of language regarding conflicts of interest that are to be repealed. The fiscal note attached to the bill indicates that while no new revenue will be generated, state expenditures will increase, with the PAB's operational costs significantly higher than its current budget, which will be covered by the General Fund. The act is intended to take effect 60 days after its passage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 21-I:52
As Amended by the Senate: 21-I:52
Version adopted by both bodies: 21-I:52