Working for the state is associated with many benefits, from job security and competitive pay to reliable benefits and work/life balance. And Kentucky state government does its best to ensure this is true.
Nonetheless, an employee accused of misconduct may be penalized by facing disciplinary action or being terminated. Many of these workers can and should fight back – but they don’t because of misconceptions about the process. Here are three myths that keep workers from exercising their rights:
Myth 1: The government has all the control
While the state government is technically the supreme local authority, you can file a complaint against them. The Kentucky Personnel Board was established to help state government employees in such instances. The board is an impartial adjudicator of employer-employee disputes for state government. Thus, they can help you with your issue.
If you believe you were treated unfairly, you should request a hearing with the board. It will help to gather documents regarding the case, file forms earlier and prepare for your hearing. The board will review all submitted evidence and conduct thorough investigations to give a fair verdict.
Myth 2: Your employer will unfairly influence the hearing
To maintain impartiality, neither you nor your employer can contact a hearing officer directly. Anything concerning the case will be handled in the official hearings. Thus, you don’t have to worry about your employer reaching out to an officer.
Myth 3: You have no ability to challenge the board’s decision
Some people fail to take legal action against the state government because they believe the board may make an unfair decision and they can’t challenge it. This is not true. If you are unsatisfied with the board’s decision, you can challenge it in the Circuit Court.
If you are a state government employee who has been treated unfairly, you should consider your options to protect your rights. Experienced legal guidance can help.