Civil Service Overhaul Has Been Signed Into Law

Major changes to the state’s system of hiring and firing employees have been signed into law by Gov. Scott Walker.

Walker signed the legislation overhauling the state civil service system on Friday afternoon in Appleton. According to a press release, Walker said that the changes “provide a more effective, efficient, and streamlined hiring process to ensure state government operates at a good value for our citizens.”

Signed Recruitment & Retention Reform into law at Manpower in Appleton. Moves state hiring into 21st century. pic.twitter.com/BfY6eDQ0Ib

— Governor Walker (@GovWalker) February 12, 2016

The legislation eliminates entrance exams for all applicants to state government positions, extends probationary periods for new hires, and redefines what constitutes just cause for firing workers. Its author said said it was designed to make the hiring process shorter, more streamlined, and less “archaic.”

Critics say that the bill could promote nepotism within state offices and open up hiring practices to bias and discrimination.