This bill authorizes the conversion of certain state positions to classified exempt salary positions and expands the rulemaking authority of the commissioner of the Department of Administrative Services. Specifically, it allows the Department to convert non-term unclassified positions or qualifying classified positions to classified exempt salary positions, provided they meet the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) requirements. The conversions are voluntary for employees in qualifying filled positions or can occur when a qualifying position becomes vacant. Additionally, the bill amends the premium payment structure for state health care coverage, ensuring that the state pays a partial premium reflecting contributions made by employees as per collective bargaining agreements.

Furthermore, the bill expands the rulemaking authority of the commissioner by adding provisions for unpaid medical leave and employee discipline, while removing previous language regarding termination and payouts upon termination of employment. It also allows the commissioner to establish temporary salary grades and steps for newly authorized unclassified positions until a final classification ranking is determined. The effective date of the bill is set for 60 days after its passage, which is August 16, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 21-I:14, 94:1-a
As Amended by the Senate: 21-I:14, 94:1-a
Version adopted by both bodies: 21-I:14, 94:1-a
CHAPTERED FINAL VERSION: 21-I:14, 94:1-a