§ 1-65. Nondisciplinary demotions.

(a)

A demotion is the assignment of an employee from a position in one class to a position in another class having a lower maximum salary. If qualified to perform the duties of the lower level position, an employee may be administratively demoted at his or her own request or as an alternative to layoff, if there is a classified position open. Such demotions shall not be considered disciplinary actions or disqualify the employee involved from consideration for later advancement. Demotion effected as alternatives to layoff may be fully or partially rescinded at any time. The salary of the employee demoted shall be established at the maximum level permissible at the lower classification which does not exceed the salary of the employee prior to demotion. Salary levels for hirings, promotions, transfers, and demotions shall be determined in accordance with the steps outlined in the classification pay plan developed by Long & Associates Management Systems Consultants of Fort Lauderdale, Florida and approved by the Ouachita Parish Police Jury.

(b)

Incapacity: An employee may be separated for incapacity for medical reasons when the employee, as an individual, no longer meets the standards of fitness required for the position; provided that such separation complies with all provisions of Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act and the Americans With Disabilities Act. A finding of incapacity shall be made through an individual medical determination by competent authority as prescribed by the department head. Separation for incapacity shall not be considered disciplinary action and shall not operate to deny an employee the use of any accrued illness, injury, disability or other benefits. Separation for incapacity is an administrative measure designed to protect the interests of the parish and the employee, and to unencumber the employee's position so that a replacement may be assigned for the maintenance of essential parish functions.

(Ord. of 12-20-76, § 2.6; Ord. of 8-21-78; Ord. No. 8494, 3-16-98)