AL HB678

Amends Section 36-26-26 of the Alabama Code to allow state departments and appointing authorities to enact voluntary furlough plans for Merit System employees with approval from the State Personnel Department.

Requires any adopted furlough plan to apply to the entire affected department and remain voluntary at the sole discretion of each employee.

Ensures furloughed state employees retain all benefits and protections, including state retirement, state insurance (including family coverage), other state benefits, leave, time of service, and employment status.

Maintains existing layoff provisions requiring seniority and service ratings to be considered, and prohibiting abolition of classified positions if non-merit employees are performing similar duties.

Became effective immediately upon passage and approval by the Governor on April 22, 2010, having passed both chambers despite gubernatorial objections.