AB 290 Affects More Than the Layoff Notice Time Frame

Much has been discussed about AB 290 (Chapter 880/2003), which is a new law that increases the time frame for the notice of layoff of classified employees from the current requirement of 30 days to the new requirement of 45 days.

There is another provision to this new law that can also have a significant effect on community colleges: a classified employee cannot be laid off if there are any short term employees providing a service that the classified employee is qualified to perform. This does not apply to short term employees hired for a period of less than 45 days, after which they cannot be extended or renewed. This provision also does not create a 45-day layoff notice for short term employees hired for less than 45 days.

This is yet one more constraint placed upon community college districts that are already struggling with financial issues. Districts that have to go through the unfortunate process of classified employee layoffs now need to take more care and time in ensuring that this new law is complied with. These provisions are effective January 1, 2004.