HB638 Summary

• Eliminates the requirement that written charges for suspension be provided to the State Personnel Director.

• Requires appointing authorities to appoint an independent hearing officer to hear evidence and make recommendations on suspensions when employees request a suspension hearing within 10 days.

• Removes appointing authority discretion to stay or proceed with suspensions; independent hearing officer recommendations must be issued, though appointing authority may accept or reject with written justification.

• Allows employees to challenge the appointment of a hearing officer with the State Personnel Director within 5 days of notification.

• Extends the suspension challenge process to all state departments and agencies regardless of size or existing hearing procedures, effective the first day of the third month following passage.