Are you being impacted by layoff within your agency? Here are answers to many of the questions you may have about this stressful, complicated process.
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The following information applies to non-represented employees under the civil service rules. It does not apply to employees who are represented under collective bargaining (union) agreements or who are separated from service due to disability.
What is a layoff?
It is a reduction in your employer’s workforce. The most common reasons for a layoff are:
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Lack of funds.
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Lack of work.
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Organizational change.
(See WAC 357-46-010)
Examples of layoff actions due to lack of work may include, but are not limited to:
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Termination of a project or special employment;
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Availability of fewer positions than there are employees entitled to such positions;
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Employee’s ineligibility to continue in a position following its reallocation to a class with a higher salary range maximum; or
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Employee’s ineligibility to continue, or choice not to continue, in a position following its reallocation to a class with a lower salary range maximum.
These are the impacts that result:
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Separation from service with your employer;
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Employment in a class with a lower salary range maximum;
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Reduction in your work year; or
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Reduction in the number of hours you work.
(See WAC 357-46-005)
How much notice will I receive before a layoff?
Per WAC 357-46-025 permanent employees must receive at least fifteen calendar days notice unless employer and employee agree to waive the fifteen days notice period. Probationary employees must receive at least one calendar days notice, per WAC 357-46-185.
What should I look for in my layoff notice that will help me understand this layoff?
Per WAC 357-46-030 if you are a permanent employee, you must be notified in writing of the following:
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The reason or basis of the layoff.
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Any layoff options your employer identified for you.
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Whether a transition review period is required.
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The date by when you must select any layoff options.
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The layoff lists (internal and state-wide) for which you are eligible to apply.
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Your right to appeal the layoff.
Your employer’s layoff procedure would be another source of information you should consult. (See WAC 357-46-020)
I am a veteran. Is there any sort of preference for veterans in layoff?
Yes. Up to five years of military service is added to the unbroken state service of eligible veterans. (See WAC 357-46-060)
I am a classified employee in my probationary period. If I am laid off, am I eligible for layoff options and to be on layoff lists?
No. Employees must have perma