Director's Message Continued
Classified vs. Unclassified Permanent employees in classified positions can only be disciplined or dismissed through due process, which means that employees are afforded notice of a proposed disciplinary action and an opportunity to respond before a final decision is made. Additionally, permanent classified employees can appeal such decisions to the State Civil Service Commission. Employees in unclassified positions are considered at-will and can be disciplined or removed from service at any time without due process requirements. Current Governance Structure Under the current Constitution, oversight of the state civil service system rests with the State Civil Service Commission, an independent body with regulatory and rulemaking authority. The Commission’s members are nominated by the presidents of Louisiana’s private universities and appointed by the Governor. Any rules affecting wages and hours must also receive gubernatorial ratification. The Legislature’s current role in civil service matters is limited to the If approved by voters, the amendment would authorize the Legislature to enact laws that add or remove positions from the unclassified service. The bill’s author has stated that the intent is to allow for greater flexibility and reform in state government by expanding the number of positions that are not subject to classified civil service protections. Supporters of the proposal argue that increased legislative involvement could enhance the efficiency of state government by allowing at-will employment for more positions, thereby streamlining hiring and separation processes. Opponents raise concerns that expanding the unclassified service could reduce employment protections by removing due process and inviting political influence into everyday decision making, and shift oversight away from the Commission, potentially affecting the stability and impartiality of state employment. At this time, the State Civil Service Commission has not taken an official position on the proposed amendment. Byron P. Decoteau, Jr., State Civil Service Director state’s appropriations process. About the Proposed Change
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State Civil Service Spotlight | June 2025
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