Merit System

Washoe County Department of Human Resources and the Merit Personnel System have evolved based upon the following employment-related laws and regulations:  

Chapter 5 of the Washoe County Code - Administration and Personnel

NRS 245.213 - Establishes a Merit System

NRS 245.215 - Regulations for a Merit System

A merit system is a means in which competitive examinations are used in the selection process and the most qualified individuals are selected for hire or promotion. A merit system utilizes fair and unbiased recruitment and selection procedures. 

Governance - Laws & Regulations Governing HR

Washoe County Department of Human Resources abides by following employment-related laws and regulations:  

• NRS 288 - Recognition of and Negotiation with Employee Organizations

• Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, including the amendments such as the 1991 Civil Rights Act

• Equal Employment Opportunity Act of 1972,  including documentation required under Department of Justice regulations

• Equal Pay Act, 1963

• Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967

• Vocational Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the 1990 Americans with Disabilities Act, both protecting disabled persons from discrimination

• The 5th and 14th Amendments to the U.S. Constitution,

• Executive Order 11246 

• Uniform Guidelines on Employee Selection Procedures,

• Fair Labor Standards Act

• Family and Medical Leave Act

• Drug Free Workplace Act 

• Motor Carrier Part 382 Alcohol and Drug Testing Program, 1995