The bill amends the Code of West Virginia by adding a new section, 5F-2-9, which exempts new hires and employees who leave their positions within the Bureau of Senior Services, Department of Administration, Department of Environmental Protection, Department of Revenue, and Department of Veterans Assistance from the classified civil service system and state grievance procedures, effective July 1, 2025. The legislation aims to provide these departments with greater flexibility in managing their workforce, including promotion, transfer, layoff, removal, discipline, and compensation. Current employees who are already part of the classified civil service system will retain their status and access to grievance procedures as long as they remain in their positions.

Additionally, the bill allows the chief administrative officers of the relevant departments to designate certain employees' status within the civil service system to comply with federal laws or to receive federal funding. It clarifies that the new provisions do not apply to positions appointed by the Governor and maintains existing protections against nepotism, favoritism, discrimination, and unethical practices in employee management. Overall, the bill seeks to enhance the ability of these departments to attract and retain employees while ensuring that current employees are not adversely affected.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 5F-2-9
Committee Substitute: 5F-2-9
Engrossed Committee Substitute: 5F-2-9
Enrolled Committee Substitute: 5F-2-9