A. The governing body of each covered institution may elect to adopt for its nonfaculty participating Covered Employees either (i) one or more human resources programs that is or are generally consistent with the provisions of Chapters 28 (§ 2.2-2800 et seq.) and 29 (§ 2.2-2900 et seq.) of Title 2.2, pertaining generally to state employees, or (ii) such other human resources program or programs as it determines to be appropriate. The covered institution may administer such human resources program or programs itself or may contract with another covered institution or with the Department of Human Resource Management to administer some or all of its human resources programs, subject to the execution of any participation or operating agreement as the parties to that agreement may deem necessary and appropriate.

B. Each covered institution may establish a human resources program or programs for participating Covered Employees not included in subsection A, including a program or programs relating to those other personnel that its enabling legislation authorizes it to employ. In addition, such institution may, in its discretion, contract for such consultants, attorneys, accountants, and financial experts, and such independent providers of expert advice and consultation as may be necessary or desirable in the judgment of the covered institution.

C. Any human resources program adopted by the governing body of a covered institution for participating Covered Employees shall be based on merit principles and objective methods of appointment, promotion, transfer, layoff, removal, severance, discipline, and other appropriate topics included in such a human resources program based on such principles and methods.

History

2005, cc. 933, 945.