In Re State Employees'ass'n of Nh
161 N.H. 476
| N.H. | 2011Background
- SEA seeks to reclassify 62 DOC positions from group I to group II based on DOC certification that they meet permanent policeman criteria.
- NHRS refused to reclassify on jurisdictional grounds, deferring to legislature for such reclassifications.
- The positions at issue include a range of non-sworn roles (accountants, administrators, carpenters, etc.) among DOC staff.
- RSA 100-A:3, IX provides that newly created jobs by a single person may be classified by the NHRS, but group II reclassifications require legislative action.
- Legislative history shows historical concern that group II be reserved for true public-safety roles and that reclassification from group I to II generally requires specific legislation.
- The court ultimately held that RSA 100-A:3, IX prohibits NHRS from reclassifying the DOC group I positions to group II without legislative authorization.
Issues
| Issue | Plaintiff's Argument | Defendant's Argument | Held |
|---|---|---|---|
| Does RSA 100-A:3, IX permit NHRS to reclassify from group I to group II without legislation? | SEA argues the first sentence grants NHRS authority to classify doubtful cases. | NHRS contends the last sentence requires legislative approval for reclassification of group I to group II. | No; legislative action required for reclassification from group I to group II. |
Key Cases Cited
- Petition of Poulicakos, 160 N.H. 438 (N.H. 2010) (review of NHRS decisions via writ of certiorari; standard of review for jurisdiction/authority)
- Farmington Teachers Assoc., 158 N.H. 453 (N.H. 2009) (statutory interpretation and de novo review of legislative intent)
- DHB v. Town of Pembroke, 152 N.H. 314 (N.H. 2005) (administrative gloss; consistency over time does not bind legislature)
- Laramie v. Stone, 160 N.H. 419 (N.H. 2010) (interpretation of statute in light of legislative history; aim to apply legislature's intent)
- Scott & Pierce, 160 N.H. 354 (N.H. 2010) (statutory interpretation and de novo analysis of legislative history)
- Bennett v. Town of Hampstead, 157 N.H. 477 (N.H. 2008) (statutory interpretation and legislative intent in context)