CLASSIFIED INFORMATION RELATED TO LAYOFF

The following questions and answers  may be helpful to classified employees at the time of a layoff. For additional specific questions, please refer to our staff directory for assistance in determining which staff member can best serve you.

WHAT RESOURCES DEFINE MY EMPLOYMENT RIGHTS?
The employment rights of non-represented classified employees are identified in the Wisconsin Administrative Code. Employment rights for represented employees are included in the specific collective bargaining agreements for each union. Most of the classified employees on campus belong to one of the unions listed below. If you belong to another union and you are unsure about who to contact, call Human Resources at 785-8013.

Administrative Support: Cindy Taylor
Blue Collar & Non-Building Trades, Technical, Law Enforcement: Al Lesky, Pat Verse
Fiscal & Staff Services (WPEC): Ralph Ghelf, Sandy Suchla

HOW WILL I KNOW WHEN A DECISION HAS BEEN MADE TO ELIMINATE MY POSITION?
You will be directly notified.  Typically an “at-risk status” is used by agencies where potentially large numbers of positions are being eliminated. On a campus the size of UW-La Crosse, it is possible and preferred to be more specific in identifying positions being eliminated and the employees affected. Accordingly, Human Resources would communicate directly with affected employees and their respective union representatives regarding their individual options. 

WHAT HAPPENS TO MY BENEFITS?
You will have rights to continue most of your fringe benefits under the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1986 (COBRA). Depending on your circumstances, you are likely to have coverage beyond your termination or layoff date. Human Resources will provide you with written notice regarding the end dates of your coverage and instructions/continuation forms for taking action on those benefits you wish to preserve. The University of Wisconsin-System offers a detailed explanation of employee benefits at termination due to layoff.

You also have several options regarding your Wisconsin Retirement System account. There may be some advantages to keeping your Wisconsin Retirement System account active. You will want to discuss your options with the Department of Employee Trust Funds toll free at 877-533-5020, and request the appropriate paperwork if you choose to take any action.

WHAT ASSISTANCE IS AVAILABLE TO ME IN MY EMPLOYMENT SEARCH?
Human Resources has identified several free services available to help you seek other employment. The Wisconsin Job Center of La Crosse County offers a wealth of services, including a 24-hour, touch-tone telephone job line (608-791-0695), personal computers, training assistance for people older than 55, job-seeking reference materials and training, and ongoing workshops on resume writing, job seeking strategies, and career exploration. Contact the Job Center at 608-789-5627 for more information about these programs.

You may also find the following web sites helpful:

HOW CAN I LEARN MORE ABOUT UNEMPLOYMENT?
The Department of Workforce Development (DWD) can help you determine if you are eligible to file a claim. Visit the DWD online at www.dwd.state.wi.us/uiben or call toll free: 800-494-4944.

WHAT IF MY ADDRESS CHANGES?
Please notify Human Resources by completing a Change of Address form so that we ensure you receive your W-2 statement at tax time.

Also see Classified Policies & Procedures: Layoffs for more information.