1. (a) An appointing authority has the authority to lay off or furlough employees or to reduce hours of employment for any of the following reasons:

   1. (1) Lack of funds.
   2. (2) A reduction in spending authorization.
   3. (3) Lack of work.
   4. (4) Efficiency.
2. (b) The appointing authority has the authority to determine the extent, effective dates, and length of a layoff, furlough, or reduction in hours taken under subsection (a).
3. (c) The appointing authority shall determine the classifications affected and the number of employees laid off in each classification and county to which a layoff applies.

4. (d) In determining a layoff, the appointing authority must consider all employees under the same appointing authority, within the classification affected, and within the county affected, and consider service ratings first. Thereafter, consideration may be given to the following relevant factors:

   1. (1) Disciplinary record.
   2. (2) Knowledge, skill, and ability.
   3. (3) Seniority.

As added by P.L.229-2011, SEC.56.