Layoffs: For Employees Info
Receiving a layoff notice is difficult news. This page explains what a layoff means, what rights and resources are available to you, and what to expect in the weeks ahead. HRS is here to help you navigate this transition.
Who This Applies To
Staff
Employees covered by a collective bargaining agreement (CBA) are subject to the layoff procedures in their applicable CBA. CBA provisions take precedence over the general guidance on this page. Contact HRS to confirm the correct process for your bargaining unit.
What a Layoff Means
A layoff is the elimination of a classified staff position due to budget reductions, reorganization, or other operational changes. A layoff is not a termination for cause and does not reflect on performance or the quality of work. The University is required to provide written notice of the layoff within the timeframes established by the relevant collective bargaining agreement or personnel policy.
Your Rights
Notice period. You are entitled to a minimum period of advance notice before your last day of work. The length of this notice depends on your bargaining unit. Contact HRS to confirm the notice period that applies to your situation.
Recall rights. If you are a permanent employee in a bargaining unit classification, you have the right to be recalled to your former classification if a position becomes available within one year of your layoff date. Recall follows seniority order within your classification. HRS will notify you by certified mail if a recall opportunity arises.
Layoff pool. If you are a permanent MFPE employee, you may apply to the HRS layoff pool within 30 days of receiving your layoff notice. Employees in the layoff pool must be considered for open bargaining unit positions for which they qualify. Your application remains active for one year and may be renewed for one additional year. Contact HRS to apply.
Transfer pool. If you are a permanent nonunion employee, you may apply to the transfer pool within 15 days of receiving your layoff notice. Employees in the transfer pool may be considered for open nonunion positions for which they qualify. Your application remains active for one year. Contact HRS to apply.
Preferential rehire. You may be given preference in applying for other University positions for which you are qualified. Contact HRS to understand how preferential rehire works and what positions may be available.
Benefits continuation. Following a layoff, you are entitled to continuation of your health insurance benefits. UM will continue to pay the employer-paid insurance contribution for up to six (6) months, or until you obtain comparable insurance elsewhere. You may be eligible to continue health coverage through COBRA after your separation. Visit the COBRA Continuation Coverage page for more information.
Leave payout. Depending on your classification and length of service, you may be eligible for a payout of accrued sick and annual leave upon separation. Contact HRS to confirm what applies to your situation.
Process
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After receiving your layoff notice, schedule a meeting with HRS to review your rights and the resources available to you. HRS can walk you through your recall rights, layoff/transfer pool eligibility, preferential rehire options, benefits continuation, and leave payout. You do not need to navigate this alone.
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Your layoff notice will specify your last day of work. If you have questions about your transition timeline, confirm them with your supervisor. Your supervisor will work with you on workload and transition arrangements through your notice period.
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The following resources are available to you during this transition:
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Free, confidential counseling and support for you and your household members. Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. This resource is available for 6 months following the end of employment. Visit the Employee Assistance Program page for more information.
- HRS Benefits Team: Contact HRS to learn about how this transition may affect your health insurance benefits, retirement, and other applicable considerations.
- HRS Recruitment Team: Contact HRS to learn about open positions at UM and how preferential rehire may apply to your application.
- Montana Job Service: The Montana Department of Labor and Industry provides job search assistance, resume help, and retraining resources. Visit jobs.mt.gov or contact your local Job Service office.
- Unemployment Insurance: You may be eligible for unemployment benefits after your separation. Contact the Montana Department of Labor and Industry at uio.mt.gov for more information.
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Work with your supervisor and HRS to complete any required offboarding steps before your last day, including returning University equipment and access credentials. HRS will provide guidance on what is required.
Frequently Asked Questions
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No. A layoff is the elimination of your position due to budget, organizational, or operational reasons unrelated to your performance. It is not a termination for cause. The University will confirm that the termination of employment was not for cause upon request.
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Yes. You are encouraged to explore open positions at UM. You may be eligible for preferential rehire consideration. Contact HRS Recruitment Team to understand how this works and which positions may be available to you.
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Following a layoff, you are entitled to continuation of your health insurance benefits. UM will continue to pay the employer-paid insurance contribution for up to six (6) months, or until you obtain comparable insurance elsewhere. After that you may be eligible to continue coverage through COBRA. Visit the COBRA Continuation Coverage page or contact HRS to learn more about your options.
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If you believe your layoff did not follow the correct process under your collective bargaining agreement, contact your union representative. HRS can also advise on the applicable grievance procedures. Contact HRS as soon as possible since grievance timelines are typically short.
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For most bargaining units, recall rights extend for one year from your layoff date. Contact HRS to confirm the recall period that applies to your bargaining unit.
Contact this Team
For questions, please submit a ticket through AskHR, email askhr@umontana.edu, or call 406-243-6760.