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 rulemaking authority to include provisions for unpaid medical leave and employee discipline, while removing references to termination and payouts upon termination of employment.

Furthermore, the bill modifies the premium payment structure for state health care coverage, ensuring that the state pays a partial premium reflecting contributions as per collective bargaining agreements. It also allows the commissioner to establish temporary salary grades and steps for newly authorized unclassified positions until a final classification is determined. The act will take effect 60 days after its passage, and the Office of Legislative Budget Assistant indicates that it will have no fiscal impact on state, county, or local expenditures or revenue.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 21-I:14, 94:1-a
As Amended by the Senate: 21-I:14, 94:1-a