On April 6, 2020, the D.C. Department of Human Resources (DCHR) effected issuance I-2020-12, Fiscal Year 2020 Restrictions on Personnel Actions, Travel, and Training, which expired September 30, 2020. This issuance extends the restriction on Classification Actions until March 31, 2021.

DCHR is suspending position classification actions during the COVID-19 emergency. This suspension applies to all agencies under the Mayor’s authority, as well as agencies with independent personnel authority and independent agencies that receive classification services from DCHR.

During the suspension:

• No new positions will be established;
• DCHR will not accept additional submissions for re-certifications, re-descriptions, or re-establishments;
• The typical 3-year recertification period is suspended; 
• When authorized, recruitment may continue for established positions, provided the existing position description accurately reflects the current duties regardless of the last date recertified;
• No new submissions of proposed reductions-in-force efforts that require the approval or concurrence of DCHR will be accepted;
• No desk audits or position reviews of encumbered (filled) positions will be conducted; and
• The establishment of new career ladders is suspended.

Exceptions

In certain instances, classification actions may be submitted with a written justification from the agency director to the DCHR Director. These exceptions include, but are not limited to, actions that are deemed mission critical as determined by the agency and DCHR, actions that are federally funded, or actions that are mandated by the Council or the Executive Office of the Mayor. These exceptions will be reviewed by the DCHR Director on a case-by-case basis.

Agencies seeking an exception should first consult with DCHR’s Human Resources Solutions Administration, Classification, Zondie Pendarvis, Human Resources Manager, at zondie.pendarvis@dc.gov, (202) 727-1599. Written justification for an exception may be made by email to the DCHR Director at ventris.gibson@dc.gov. The justification must address why the position is “new,” and include the approval to fill the position from the City Administrator.

This issuance shall apply retroactively to October 1, 2020 to all District government subordinate executive branch agencies, as well as agencies with independent personnel authority and independent agencies that receive classification services from DCHR until March 31, 2021.

Authorities

1. Fiscal Year 2020 Expenditure Restrictions: Restrictions on Certain Non-Personal Services Expenditures, Restrictions on Certain Personnel Actions, and Freeze on Travel and Training, Mayor’s Order 2020-057 (Apr. 6, 2020).
2. Restriction on Certain Personnel Actions; Travel and Training Reporting Requirement, City Administrator’s Order No. 2016-1 (July 15, 2016).