What actions may the appointing authority take regarding an employee?

The appointing authority has the power to take significant personnel actions related to an employee, particularly when it comes to discipline or reorganization within the department. The ability to suspend, involuntarily demote, or dismiss an employee is crucial for maintaining order and accountability in the workplace.

Suspension allows the authority to temporarily remove an employee from their duties, particularly if an investigation is necessary or if the employee's behavior poses a risk to the organization. Involuntary demotion is another critical action that can be used when an employee may not be performing adequately in their current role but still retains necessary skills and qualifications for a lower position. Dismissal is the most severe option, used when an employee's actions violate policies or standards to an extent that warrants termination.

While the other options—terminating a contract, reassigning duties, and changing work hours—may also relate to the appointing authority's functions, they do not directly imply the level of disciplinary action that “suspend, involuntarily demote, or dismiss” does. Terminating a contract might not necessarily be a direct reflection of disciplinary measures, and reassigning duties or changing work hours can be more administrative or logistical decisions rather than those taken in response to employee performance