MEA negotiated in the FY2024-2027 MOU, a side letter (Appendix L), on transition of category 18 positions to permanent civil services. In the Fall of 2024, DHR and MEA met and discussed Civil Service Rule changes to expedite the hiring of Permanent Civil Service (PCS) positions. Since then the Civil Service Commission adopted the rule changes on March 17, 2025. However, the addition of including the 8A positions for MTA is being considered by the Commission at the April 7, 2025 meeting. DHR sent out a guidance memo (see link) to departments on March 18, 2025. In addition, DHR's Employment Services Division will be hosting a forum on April 9, 2025 to provide further guidance to HR professionals.
The hiring freeze does not impact the rule changes in that the rule changes provide for a process for expediting hiring. To the extent the positions are approved, departments can now use the processes under the pilot to fill the positions. If departments have any questions on how to proceed, contact the Department of Human Resources’ Employment Services Division.