17 North Dakota agencies sign up for voluntary job buyout program

BISMARCK, N.D. (North Dakota Monitor) — A total of 17 North Dakota government agencies are taking part in a voluntary employee buyout program as the state prepares for a dip in revenue.

Agencies were notified last week that they could participate in the program, which offers employees three months of wages and benefits if they leave state employment by Aug. 31.

It is officially termed a voluntary separation incentive program.

Office of Management and Budget Director Joe Morrissette last week described the program as an incentive for employees who may be “on the fence” about retiring or leaving their job. Employees do not have to be eligible for retirement to participate.

An application period opens Sunday and goes through March 31. The state has the option of rejecting an application.

The agency will have to show there would be a savings by leaving the position open at least temporarily or filling the position with an employee who will be paid less. The effect that losing the employee would have on the agency also will be considered.

Employees will be notified by April 17.

The state is preparing an updated budget forecast as low oil prices and tax changes may cause state revenue to dip below current estimates.

The Office of Management and Budget on Wednesday provided a list of participating agencies to the North Dakota Monitor.

The agencies are: Information Technology, Department of Public Instruction, School for the Deaf, Health and Human Services, Protection and Advocacy Project, Insurance and Securities, Department of Mineral Resources, Workforce Safety and Insurance, Highway Patrol, Department of Commerce, Department of Agriculture, Parks and Recreation, Public Finance Authority, Seed Department, Center for Distance Education, Office of Management and Budget, and Career and Technical Education.

This story was updated to correct when applications are open.

Reach Deputy Editor Jeff Beach at jbeach@northdakotamonitor.com.