This bill seeks to reform the personnel systems within the West Virginia state government, particularly focusing on the Department of Transportation, the State Tax Division, and the Bureau for Social Services. It proposes the elimination of special merit-based personnel systems for these departments, transferring their personnel duties to the Division of Personnel. Starting July 1, 2026, new hires and promoted employees will be exempt from the classified civil service system and state grievance procedures. The bill also terminates the State Personnel Board, transferring its authority to the Division of Personnel, and modernizes various processes, including shortening job opening time frames and ensuring compliance with the Freedom of Information Act regarding personnel records.

Additionally, the bill introduces a new framework for personnel administration based on merit principles, emphasizing the importance of attracting and retaining qualified employees. It outlines the functions of the Division of Personnel, which include evaluating applicants and maintaining employment records, while expanding the list of positions exempt from oversight. The bill also stipulates that no more than four members of a related board may belong to the same political party and clarifies the conditions for board member removal. Furthermore, it establishes qualifications and duties for the Director of Personnel, abolishes the Civil Service Commission, and integrates personnel from the Bureau for Social Services into the classified-exempt system, all aimed at enhancing the efficiency of state government operations.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 5F-2-8, 11B-1-8, 29-6-1, 29-6-2, 29-6-4, 29-6-5, 29-6-6, 29-6-7, 29-6-10, 29-6-16, 29-6-24, 49-10-101, 29-6-8, 29-6-9, 29-6-10a, 29-6-14, 29-6-25, 29-6-27, 49-10-102, 49-10-103