This bill seeks to reform the personnel systems within the West Virginia state government, specifically 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 introduces new definitions and clarifications regarding personnel administration, emphasizing merit-based appointments and promotions.

Additionally, the bill modernizes various processes related to state hiring, including shortening time frames for job openings and appointments, and ensuring that records of the Division of Personnel are subject to the Freedom of Information Act. It establishes a centralized oversight system to eliminate redundancy and inefficiency, while also detailing the responsibilities of the Director of Personnel, who will oversee operations and maintain necessary personnel systems. The bill aims to enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of state government operations, improve personnel management, and better attract and retain qualified employees within the state workforce.

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