Politics & Government

Bevin mum about reception for non-merit employees

Gov. Matt Bevin
Gov. Matt Bevin

Gov. Matt Bevin held a private reception Monday afternoon for non-merit, or politically appointed, state managers that was privately funded.

His press office declined to answer questions about the purpose of the event, its location, who paid for it, how many people attended and if all non-merit employees were invited.

In response to the Herald-Leader’s questions, Bevin press secretary Amanda Stamper said “the private event this afternoon is for non-merit employees. This is a privately-funded event, and no public funds will be expended.”

Most state government jobs are under the merit system, which is designed to protect workers from political influence. Merit jobs are selected from a register and the candidates must meet minimum requirements. Merit employees serve a probationary period before gaining additional rights and privileges.

Non-merit employees generally are managerial positions and are politically appointed. They may be terminated without cause.

Jack Brammer: (502) 227-1198, @BGPolitics

This story was originally published December 5, 2016 at 6:02 PM with the headline "Bevin mum about reception for non-merit employees."

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