N.J.S.A. 11A:8-2 Pre-layoff actions
a. An appointing authority shall lessen the possibility, extent or impact of layoffs by implementing pre-layoff actions, which may include but need no… Amended 1 time since 1986.
In plain language
Before laying anyone off, an appointing authority has to try to avoid it. The section lists five pre-layoff actions and says the list is not exhaustive: freeze hiring and promotion temporarily, separate non-permanent employees, return provisional employees to their permanent titles, reassign people, and help those who might be affected find transfers or other work. It also requires consultation with the majority representative of the affected employees before any of it happens. The obligation is to implement pre-layoff actions, not merely to consider them, and the union is entitled to be at the table first.
Written by the NJ Civil Service Navigator editorial team from the text of this section. The statute itself is below, unabridged.
Current through the close of the 221st Legislature (L. 2025, c. 346). What that means
Enacted by L. 1986, c. 112, effective September 25, 1986. Last amended by L. 2001, c. 241, effective September 6, 2001.
A New Jersey statute changes only when the Legislature amends it, so a section untouched since its last amendment is settled rather than out of date.
Reviewed as of July 28, 2026. Official text: njleg.state.nj.us.
a.An appointing authority shall lessen the possibility, extent or impact of layoffs by implementing pre-layoff actions, which may include but need not be limited to:#
(1)initiating a temporary hiring or promotion freeze;#
(2)separating non-permanent employees;#
(3)returning provisional employees to their permanent titles;#
(4)reassigning employees; and#
(5)assisting potentially affected employees in securing transfers or other employment.#
b.An appointing authority shall consult with the majority representative of public employees selected or designated pursuant to section 7 of P.L. 1968, c. 303 (C. 34:13A-5.3) that represents the affected employees prior to implementing pre-layoff actions pursuant to this section.#
Legislative history
Session laws, newest first
- L. 2001, c. 241, section 2Amended
effective September 6, 2001 - L. 1986, c. 112Enacted
effective September 25, 1986